Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development failed to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need in an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence' and would result in a visually obtrusive feature in a 'High Scenic Amenity' area with unresolved traffic safety risks regarding visibility splays.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicants did not provide sufficient evidence of a demonstrable economic or social need to reside in this specific rural area, as required by Policy RH-P-1 of the Donegal County Development Plan 2024-2030.
- The scale, mass, and elevated footprint of the dwelling would create an intrusive feature on a sensitive seaward site, negatively impacting the High Scenic Amenity landscape and panoramic views of Lough Swilly.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate sufficient land ownership or legal control to ensure the maintenance of essential visibility splays in a southern direction, posing a significant traffic hazard.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy RH-P-1Policy RH-P-9Policy L-P-2Policy L-P-7Policy L-P-8Section 6.3Section 11.2Rural Housing Location, Siting and Design Guide 2024-2030
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks permission for a 231sqm 'H' shaped four-bedroom dwelling and a 41sqm garage on a 0.26-hectare site in Liafin, Co. Donegal. The site is situated in a rural area designated as both an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence' and an 'Area of High Scenic Amenity' overlooking Lough Swilly. While Donegal County Council initially granted permission, the Inspector recommended refusal following a third-party appeal. The Inspector noted that the applicants live and work in the town of Bun...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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