Core Refusal Reason
The site exhibits poor drainage characteristics and a high winter water table, rendering it unsuitable for the safe disposal of domestic effluent via the proposed on-site wastewater treatment system.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The site possesses poor drainage characteristics as evidenced by significant water volumes observed in trial holes and wet, soggy ground conditions during inspection.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the site can safely dispose of domestic effluent in compliance with the EPA Code of Practice, specifically regarding the height of the winter water table.
- The proposed development would be prejudicial to public health and pose an unacceptable risk to surface water quality, thereby contravening the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Galway County Development Plan 2015-2021Section 3.8.2Section 3.9Objective RHO2Objective RHO9Chapter 5Chapter 9Section 9.10.1Section 9.11Chapter 13Section 13.3Section 13.4DM Standard 6DM Standard 7DM Standard 8Section 13.11Policy NHB 1Objective DS 6Objective NHB 1Objective NHB 2Objective NHB 3Objective AFF 5DM Standard 40
Decision Document Summary
Thomas Connolly sought permission for a 200sqm dormer dwelling and an on-site wastewater treatment system at Illaun, Milltown, Co. Galway. The site is located in a rural townland at the end of a cul-de-sac, bordering the Tuam-Claremorris rail line. While the applicant met the rural housing criteria for a 'structurally weak' area and the design was deemed acceptable, the Planning Authority refused permission due to critical site suitability issues. Site inspections revealed a high water table and...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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