Core Refusal Reason
While the Planning Authority refused permission, the Inspector recommended granting retention permission, concluding that the structure is acceptable as an ancillary detached garden room due to a demonstrated medical need for family accommodation, provided it is not used as an independent dwelling.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development does not strictly comply with 'family flat' standards because it is detached and lacks physical integration with the main house, but it is acceptable as a detached garden room.
- A genuine medical and family need for the accommodation was demonstrated, which justifies the inclusion of sanitary facilities as part of an ancillary residential use.
- To ensure the structure remains ancillary and does not function as an independent unit, conditions are required to remove a subdividing garden wall and block up a secondary pedestrian entrance to the laneway.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy H3H3 Objective 2H3 Objective 5H3 Objective 7Section 6.8Section 6.8.2Policy H14H14 Objective 1H14 Objective 2Section 6.8.3Policy H15H15 Objective 1Section 12.6.8Section 3.6 of the SDCC House Extension Design Guide 2025
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks retention permission for a 55.6sq.m detached single-storey structure at the rear of 110 Palmerstown Avenue, Dublin 20. The structure is intended for use as a 'granny flat' and home office for the applicant's mother, who requires semi-independent living following a serious injury. South Dublin County Council originally refused permission, arguing the unit was excessive in scale, effectively a separate dwelling due to its bathroom facilities, and contrary to the 2025 House Ex...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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