Core Planning Reasoning
The Planning Authority refused based on flood risk (INF POL 18 and INF POL 20), but the Inspector recommends a grant of permission, concluding that the proposal is small-scale infill on zoned land in a defended area where flood risk can be adequately managed via mitigation measures such as raised floor levels.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development constitutes appropriate small-scale infill on land zoned for residential use and is consistent with the existing character and pattern of development in Mornington.
- While the site is located in a flood zone, it benefits from existing flood defences (constructed c.2011), and the submitted Flood Risk Assessment demonstrates that the development can be safely managed without increasing risk to other properties.
- The proposal complies with Circular PL 2/2014 regarding minor infill development in flood-prone areas, and the Inspector determined that the applicant has met all obligations required under national guidelines and local policy.
Cited Policies (CDP)
INF POL 18INF POL 20Objective A1 Existing ResidentialSection 37(2)(b)
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks permission for a storey-and-a-half dormer dwelling and garage on a 0.095-hectare vacant infill site at Tower Cross, Mornington, Co. Meath. The site is zoned 'A1 Existing Residential'. Meath County Council originally refused the application, arguing it constituted 'highly vulnerable' development in a flood-prone area, thereby contravening policies INF POL 18 and INF POL 20. The Inspector's assessment highlights that the site is in a 'defended area' benefitting from both fluv...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.