Core Refusal Reason
While the Planning Authority refused permission due to traffic safety concerns, the Inspector recommended a grant of permission, concluding that the development is an appropriate complementary use to the existing sports club and that traffic safety can be ensured by conditioning the completion of traffic calming measures permitted under adjacent developments.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The replacement pre-school structure is an appropriate complementary use to the existing GAA club and is consistent with the established planning history and zoning of the site.
- Traffic and pedestrian safety concerns regarding sightlines at the Balkill Road entrance are adequately addressed by conditioning the completion of traffic calming works already commenced as part of adjacent permitted residential developments.
- A five-year temporary permission is justified given the charitable nature of the applicant and the leasehold status of the lands, providing flexibility for future permanent planning.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective DMS94Objective Z05Zoning Objective 'HA' (High Amenity)
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Bracken Hill School Charitable Trust, sought a 5-year temporary permission to replace an existing 171.5 sq.m school structure with a new 179 sq.m modular pre-school unit at the Beann Eadair GAA grounds in Howth. Fingal County Council refused the application, citing traffic hazards and a failure to meet sightline requirements under Objective DMS94. However, the Inspector's assessment focused on the fact that the school has operated on-site for over 20 years and that two neighboring...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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