Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is considered to be in accordance with the Fingal County Development Plan 2017-2023, as it would not seriously injure residential or visual amenities, respects the character of the receiving environment, and is acceptable in terms of traffic and pedestrian safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed access road is compatible with the 'RU – Rural' zoning objective and is not considered premature as its construction is strictly conditioned upon obtaining planning permission for the associated educational facility.
- Visual and residential amenity impacts on the four dwellings to the east are sufficiently mitigated by the site topography, where the road is set lower than the houses, and a detailed native landscaping masterplan.
- The proposed eastern route is deemed the most viable option as the alternative western agricultural access is physically restricted, presents road safety risks at the junction with Featherbed Lane, and involves lands outside the applicant's control.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Fingal County Development Plan 2017-2023RU – Rural Zoning ObjectiveHighly Sensitive Landscape (Sheet No. 14)Green Infrastructure 1Preserve Views Objective (Featherbed Lane and R128)Section 48 Development Contribution Scheme
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the construction of a new 6m wide access road and 2m footpath at the Loughshinny Residential Home to facilitate a future-planned special needs school (St. Michael's House). The 0.92ha site is situated within a 'Highly Sensitive Landscape' on lands zoned 'RU - Rural'. Third-party appellants argued that the development represented 'project splitting' to avoid EIA requirements and would negatively impact the privacy and views of adjacent residential properties. The Inspector c...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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