Core Planning Reasoning
Refusal is recommended because the proposed development, in conjunction with the high density of existing on-site wastewater treatment systems and the site's poor drainage/high water table, poses a risk of groundwater pollution. Furthermore, the development would exacerbate ribbon development in an area under strong urban influence.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The Inspector concluded that the development would give rise to a significant risk of groundwater pollution due to the cumulative impact of multiple wastewater systems in a location with poor drainage and a recorded high water table.
- The proposal constitutes undesirable ribbon development, as it would increase the number of houses on one side of a 250m road stretch to five, contributing to the suburbanisation of the rural area.
- While the applicant demonstrated a genuine rural housing need, the environmental and spatial planning constraints—specifically the proliferation of existing one-off housing and drainage issues—make the site unsuitable for further residential development.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy RD POL 46Policy RD POL 1Policy RD POL 2Policy RD POL 3Section 9.4Section 9.5.1Section 9.5.2Section 9.18.3
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Darren Orr, seeks planning permission for a 177.2sqm single-storey dwelling, a new wastewater treatment system, and a new entrance at Caulstown, Dunboyne, Co. Meath. The 0.3611ha site is located in a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence' and is currently used for grazing. Meath County Council initially granted permission subject to 17 conditions, but this was appealed by third-party neighbours (Andrew and Mary Curtis) who raised concerns regarding flood risk, groundwater conta...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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