Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural-generated housing need for a house at this location in accordance with the Rural Settlement Strategy for 'Greenbelt' zoned lands as set out in the Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant does not satisfy the eligibility criteria for a rural-generated housing need because the family home has been sold (severing close ties) and the agricultural employment was documented as seasonal/part-time rather than full-time for the required 15-year period.
- The Inspector disagreed with the Planning Authority's refusal on design and traffic grounds, concluding that the contemporary barn-style design and the use of an existing entrance would be acceptable subject to conditions.
- Notwithstanding the design and technical merits, the fundamental lack of a demonstrated rural housing need means the development would contribute to rural encroachment and contravene the Greenbelt zoning objective.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029Section 3.5.15.3 (Rural Settlement Strategy)Section 3.5.15.5Objective SPQHO81Table 3.5 (Criteria i-iv)Objective SPQHO50Objective SPQHO51Objective SPQHO54Objective SPQHO85Objective DMSO41Objective DMSO42Table 14.9 (Design Guidelines)
Decision Document Summary
The proposal seeks permission for a 105sqm single-storey dwelling with a contemporary 'agricultural' design (featuring a semi-cylindrical roof) on a 0.404-hectare site in Turkinstown, Balbriggan. The site is zoned 'GB - Greenbelt' and was formerly part of the applicant's family home lands. The Planning Authority refused the application on four grounds: lack of rural housing need, poor quality design, absence of a visual impact statement, and traffic hazards from a new entrance. On appeal, the In...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.