SD24A/0226W
Change of use from commercial to residential. Construction of single storey extension to the rear of existing dwelling and internal modifications at ground floor level comprising of 2no. Bedrooms, en-suite, open plan Kitchen, Living and Dining area, Utility Room and Living Room. Conversion of existing attic space to 2no. bedrooms, en-suite and family bathroom comprising of modification of existing roof structure, raising of existing gables, new access stairs, flat roof dormer to the rear and 2no. A-style roof dormers to the front, Construction of front porch and all associated site works.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would detract from the visual amenity and special character of the Rathcoole Village Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) due to its inappropriate scale and design, specifically the roof modifications and large rear dormer, while failing to provide adequate details regarding safe vehicular access and car parking.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The scale and design of the proposed attic conversion, specifically the large flat-roofed rear dormer, would be visually dominant and incongruous with the low-profile character of the existing bungalow and the wider Architectural Conservation Area.
- The application lacks sufficient technical detail regarding structural integrity, safe vehicular access, and on-curtilage parking, making the proposal unsatisfactory in terms of demonstrating compliance with residential amenity standards.
- Permitting the development would set an undesirable precedent for similar unsympathetic interventions that would cumulatively harm the historic character, vistas, and streetscape of Rathcoole Village.