Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a local housing need and the proposed dwelling was deemed visually intrusive due to its elevated siting in a sensitive landscape area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant did not demonstrate compliance with the rural housing need criteria for 'Stronger Rural Areas' as set out in Table 6 of the Laois County Development Plan 2017-2023.
- The proposed development, by virtue of its prominent and elevated location, would be visually intrusive, out of character with the local pattern of development, and would constitute an unduly obtrusive feature on the landscape.
- The proposal contravenes the Rural Design Guidance in Appendix 7 of the Development Plan and would seriously injure the visual amenities of the 'Hills and Upland' landscape character area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 2.6 Rural Housing StrategyTable 6 of the Laois County Development Plan 2017-2023Appendix 7 Rural Design GuidanceDM04DM06DM09DM15DM17DM18DM44DM45DM46DM53DM54DM56DM63DM64DM65National Policy Objective 19National Policy Objective 20
Decision Document Summary
Graham and Nicola Lawlor proposed the construction of a dormer dwelling, domestic garage, and wastewater treatment system at Slatt Lower, Wolfhill, Co. Laois. The site is located in a 'Stronger Rural Area' and a landscape designated as 'Hills and Upland'. Laois County Council refused permission primarily because the applicants failed to prove a functional or social local need to reside in the area. Furthermore, the planning authority found that the dwelling's elevated position and design would b...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.