Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development fails to comply with landscape protection policies (Objectives L07 and ED98) as it is inappropriately sited in a prominent upland area, obscuring long-range views from the public road despite the availability of more suitable, better-screened alternative locations within the applicant's landholding.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- While the principle of a significant equine facility is acceptable under Objective ED109 and does not constitute 'leapfrogging' or piecemeal development, the specific site selection is flawed.
- The scale of the proposed 8.6m high stable block would significantly impede long-distance views across the sensitive upland landscape from the public road.
- The development is contrary to Objectives L07 and ED98 because the applicant failed to justify why the structure could not be relocated to better-screened areas or clustered with existing farm buildings on their wider 13ha landholding.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective CS18Objective ED97Objective ED98Objective ED49Objective ED129Objective L07Section 3.6.5Table 3-2Section 5.5.1 of Volume 2
Decision Document Summary
The application relates to a proposed agricultural yard at Island Upper, Rossminouge, Co. Wexford, consisting of a large 1,391 sqm stable block, manure store, horsewalker, and paddock to accommodate 24 horses for private use. Wexford County Council originally refused permission, citing concerns regarding piecemeal development and the sequential growth of Craanford village. On appeal, the Inspector disagreed with the Council's assessment regarding 'leapfrogging,' noting that the development is ag...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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