Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority initially refused retention permission on the basis that the detached garden shed was not modest in floor area relative to the primary residence and reduced the private open space (c. 24sqm remaining) significantly below the required 60sqm standard for a 3-bedroom dwelling; however, the Inspector recommended a grant of permission, finding the remaining 35.45sqm of space adequate and the structure's scale acceptable.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The garden shed is considered modest in scale relative to the primary dwelling, increasing the overall floor area by approximately 20%, which is acceptable for an ancillary residential structure.
- While the remaining private open space of 35.45sqm falls below the County Development Plan guideline of 60sqm, it is deemed functional and adequate for the occupants, exceeding the 25sqm minimum often applied in exempted development contexts.
- Technical concerns raised by observers regarding drainage and boundary wall stability do not warrant refusal and can be managed through a condition requiring the applicant to agree on a surface water disposal plan with the Planning Authority.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 12.8.3.3 Private Open Space for HousesSection 12.3.7.4 Detached Habitable RoomSection 12.4.8.3 Driveways/Hardstanding AreasPolicy Objective E16 Sustainable Drainage SystemSection 12.2.1 Built EnvironmentSection 10.2.2 Water and WastewaterSection 3.4.1.3 Policy objectives CA7 Construction Materials
Decision Document Summary
This Inspector's Report evaluates an appeal against the refusal of retention permission for a garden shed and ground level alterations at 1A Willow Avenue, Cherrywood. The subject site is a 0.020ha plot containing a two-storey 3-bedroom house. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council refused the application, arguing the 24sqm shed dominated the rear garden and breached private open space standards. The applicant contended that the shed is within reasonable size limits and that the garden, including...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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