211675
the development consists of and will consist of the following: Retention Permission for: 1) Existing dormer style log cabin operating as tourism accommodation ancillary to adjoining campsite, 2) Existing waste water treatment system, 3) Ancillary site works. Permission for: 1) To close up existing entrance and remove hardcore surfaced driveway serving the dormer style log cabin, 2) To use the existing entrance to the yurts area of the site along with internal gravelled roadway to access the log cabin building, 3) To carry out alterations to the existing log cabin to include the following: a) Remove front entrance lobby and storage area including cutting back of roof area over, b) Removal of balcony area on gable end, c) Cutting back and removal of large roof overhangs and log ends and the construction of an external block and rendered wall around the exterior of the cabin including alterations to window and door opes to the cabin, d) Upgrading of existing waste water treatment system and percolation area serving the existing log cabin and glamping yurts/camping area, e) All ancillary site works to include extensive landscaping to the north west of the site
Core Refusal Reason
The development is considered an incongruous and visually obtrusive feature in a highly sensitive landscape of national importance, which would negatively impact the visual amenities and archaeological heritage of the Loughcrew and Slieve na Calliagh Hills.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The log cabin's siting and design, specifically its discordant roof-to-wall and solid-to-void ratios, make it a permanent and incongruous feature that fails to integrate into the sensitive landscape.
- The development would negatively impact the visual integrity and archaeological setting of the Loughcrew and Slieve na Calliagh Hills, an area of exceptional landscape value and national importance.
- Granting permission would set an undesirable future precedent for similar unauthorized developments and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.