Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would result in the permanent loss of habitats of local biodiversity importance, specifically wet heath, which would be contrary to Objective HE 2-3 of the Cork County Development Plan regarding the protection of the county's ecological network.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The site contains habitats of high ecological value, specifically wet heath, which would be permanently lost through infilling, undermining local biodiversity.
- The application is significantly deficient in information regarding the source of fill, traffic impacts on minor local roads, drainage management, and environmental mitigation.
- The scale of the proposed infill operation is considered a significant development in a remote upland area that could set a negative precedent for the erosion of similar natural habitats.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective HE 2-3
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the reclamation of a 1.083-hectare site in Gortanimill, Macroom, by importing 21,055 tonnes of fill material to improve agricultural output and constructing a new entrance. The site is characterized as a low-lying field in a remote rural area containing wet heath habitat and forming part of a larger wetland complex. While the Planning Authority originally refused permission based on biodiversity grounds, the Inspector noted further critical issues. Key arguments for refusal...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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