Core Refusal Reason
The Inspector recommended reversing the Planning Authority's refusal, concluding that the small-scale (3sq.m) timber office and 1.85m fence are modest, aesthetically compatible with the area, and do not detract from the residential amenity or the 'unity of design' of the estate.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The 3sq.m structure is modest in scale relative to the dwelling and its impact on private open space is offset by the presence of large communal open spaces directly adjacent to the site.
- The materials and finishes used for both the fence and the timber office are sympathetic to the existing environment and do not visually injure the character of the Brooklawn Wood development.
- The development provides useful ancillary accommodation for home-working and complies with the core principles of the County Development Plan regarding detached habitable rooms.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective A - Residential ZoningSection 12.3.7.4 (Detached habitable rooms) of the 2022-2028 Development Plan
Decision Document Summary
This report pertains to a first-party appeal regarding the retention of a 3sq.m timber garden office and timber fencing at 6 Brooklawn Wood, Blackrock. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council had initially refused permission, citing concerns over visual obtrusiveness and negative impacts on the 'unity of design' of the original development. Objections from the Residents Owners Management CLG focused on precedent and loss of open space. The Inspector argued that the scale of the structure is minima...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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View the appeal at An Bord Pleanála