Core Planning Reasoning
The applicant failed to demonstrate a 'demonstrable economic or social need' to reside in a rural area under urban influence, meaning the proposal would result in haphazard and unsustainable development contrary to National Policy Objective 19.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- While the applicant demonstrated a social and family connection to the area as a 'local rural person' under Table 12 of the CDP, this alone is insufficient to satisfy national policy requirements.
- The proposal fails to comply with National Policy Objective 19 of the National Planning Framework, which requires a demonstrable economic or social need for a house in rural areas under urban influence.
- Permitting the development would contribute to the encroachment of random rural development, undermine the role of Wexford Town as a settlement 'hub', and set an unsustainable precedent for the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Wexford County Development Plan 2013-2019Objective RH03Objective RH04Table No. 12Chapter 18Section 4.3.3.2
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Jenifer Roche, sought permission for a contemporary L-shaped bungalow and private services on a 0.565ha site at Ballyhennigan, Barntown. Though Wexford County Council initially granted permission, the decision was appealed by a third party on grounds including fire risk, water supply impacts, and loss of privacy. The Inspector found that while the site could physically accommodate the house without impacting residential amenity or drainage, it is located in a 'Stronger Rural Area'...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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