Core Planning Reasoning
The proposal was recommended for grant as it constitutes a low-impact ancillary structure for passive recreation within an established community facility, compatible with local land use zoning and the visual amenities of the area without increasing traffic or impacting European sites.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed deck is an ancillary use that will not intensify the site's activity or create additional traffic and parking demands.
- The development's low profile and siting mean it will not significantly interfere with the visual amenities or the unprotected views currently enjoyed by neighboring properties.
- The project is of a modest scale and nature such that it will have no significant effects on the adjacent Donegal Bay SAC and SPA.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Donegal Town Local Area Plan 2018 – 2024 (LAP)Land use zone: established developmentLand use zone: local environment
Decision Document Summary
This report concerns an appeal against Donegal County Council's decision to grant permission for a 28 sqm covered outdoor deck area at a community facility (Blue Stack Special Needs Foundation) in Donegal Town. The site occupies a 0.354-hectare plot in 'The Glebe', overlooking the River Eske Estuary. Third-party appellants raised concerns regarding the loss of long-established views, increased traffic, and potential impacts on the nearby Donegal Bay SAC/SPA. The Inspector argued that the structu...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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