Core Planning Reasoning
The development was refused due to unsuitable soil conditions (peat) for effective wastewater treatment, posing a public health risk, and its detrimental impact on a highly sensitive landscape designated as an area of Especially High Scenic Amenity (EHSA).
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to adequately demonstrate that effluent from the development can be safely treated and disposed of on-site given the presence of deep peat and high perched water tables.
- The proposed dwelling would introduce an intrusive built structure into a largely open and undeveloped coastal landscape of 'Especially High Scenic Amenity', detracting from its character.
- The development is fundamentally inconsistent with the objectives of the Donegal County Development Plan regarding the protection of groundwater and the preservation of high-quality natural landscapes.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Donegal County Development Plan 2018-2024Chapter 6.3RH-O-3RH-O-4RH-O-5RH-O-6RH-P-1RH-P-2RH-P-3Section 7.1NH-P-6NH-P-7Section 5.2WES-O-4WES-O-5
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks retention and completion of a single-storey dwelling and a wastewater treatment system at Falchorrib Lower, Co. Donegal. The site is situated on a low-lying peninsula between Gweebarra and Trawenagh Bays in a landscape designated as 'Especially High Scenic Amenity'. While Donegal County Council initially granted permission, the Inspector recommends refusal following a third-party appeal. Key arguments focus on environmental and visual impact: the Inspector notes that the si...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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