Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission (reversing the Planning Authority's refusal), concluding that the development is an essential ancillary facility for an established family farm that supports sustainable agriculture without materially harming the landscape character or residential amenities of the greenbelt area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The 128sq.m shed is a necessary piece of infrastructure for the viability of a modest family farm and is acceptable in principle within a designated greenbelt area.
- While the site is in a High Value Landscape, the shed's visual impact is localized and mitigated by its hillside setting and the existing pattern of residential development in the vicinity.
- Potential issues regarding non-agricultural use and traffic safety can be effectively managed through strict conditions and a temporary seven-year permission to allow for monitoring.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RP 5-19Objective RP 5-20Objective GB 1-1Objective EC 8-15Objective GI 14-9Objective GI 14-10Objective BE 15-13Section 5.5.4Section 5.5.9Section 5.5.12Section 8.16Scenic Route S100
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the retention of a 128sq.m machinery and hay store on a 0.12ha site in Colla, Schull, Co. Cork. The site is located in a 'High Value Landscape' and within a town greenbelt near a designated scenic route. The Planning Authority initially refused permission, citing material contravention of the County Development Plan and negative visual impacts. However, the Inspector notes that the applicant operates a 25-hectare suckler beef farm split into two blocks, and the shed is vita...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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