Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to a lack of robust justification for the scale of the structures at this location, significant negative visual impact on a sensitive landscape, and failure to demonstrate safe traffic access and egress for large vehicles.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide adequate justification for the scale of the proposed sheds or comprehensive landholding details, contravening Objective DM OBJ 62 of the Meath County Development Plan.
- Given the elevated nature of the site within the 'Very High Value' Bellewstown Hills landscape area, the scale and height of the buildings would be visually obtrusive and detrimental to the area's character.
- The intensification of use by articulated lorries at an entrance lacking demonstrated visibility splays and swept path diagrams would endanger public safety by reason of a traffic hazard.
Cited Policies (CDP)
ED POL 19ED POL 24RUR DEV SO 6RUR DEV SO 7RUR DEV SO 8RD POL 10RD POL 12RD POL 13RD POL 38Objective DM OBJ 62HER POL 52HER OBJ 49HER OBJ 50Section 11.6.8Appendix 5 (Landscape Character Assessment)
Decision Document Summary
The proposal sought permission to demolish two dilapidated poultry sheds and construct two large new agricultural storage sheds (c. 2,722sq.m each) at Hilltown Little, Bellewstown, Co. Meath. The site is located in a sensitive, elevated rural area within the 'Bellewstown Hills' landscape character area. While the principle of agricultural development is generally supported, the Inspector found the proposed structures—standing at 11.8m, over double the height of the existing sheds—to be excessive...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.