Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to its architecturally undistinguished and industrial-type design, which, along with an excessive setback from the footpath, was deemed visually unsatisfactory for its prominent Main Street location and inappropriate for the site's transitional character. Additionally, the layout was considered premature as it failed to provide adequate pedestrian access or a coordinated road strategy for accessing lands to the rear.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The building's industrial-style design and 7.9m setback fail to integrate with the existing streetscape of Blanchardstown village and would act as a visual barrier rather than encouraging vibrancy.
- The proposal fails to satisfy the requirements of Objective ZO2 (Transitional Zonal Areas) and Policy SPQHP5 (High Quality Design), representing an inappropriate design for a prominent town-centre location.
- The site layout is considered premature as it seeks to facilitate future development on backlands without a coherent road layout that adequately provides for pedestrian safety or sufficient car parking.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Fingal Development Plan 2023 – 2029Zoning TC - Town CentreZoning RS - ResidentialPolicy CSP1Policy CSP2Policy CSP9Policy SPQHP5Objective EEO90Objective EEO96Objective EEO97Objective EEO98Objective ZO2Objective DMS05Section 14.4.4Section 14.4.5Objectives DMS08 to DMS11
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the demolition of an existing bungalow and the construction of a two-storey over basement retail unit (662 sq m) at Melville, Main Street, Blanchardstown. The applicant, Justin Ward, argued that the site is an underutilised brownfield area and that the development would improve the public realm and provide access to lands at the rear. While the Planning Authority and Inspector agreed that the principle of retail use is acceptable under the 'Town Centre' zoning, the specific...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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