Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need under Objective CPO 6.41, and the proposal would result in significant adverse visual impacts on the rural landscape due to extensive hedgerow removal and land re-profiling.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient documentation, such as a sworn declaration or 10-year residency proof, to demonstrate a functional social or economic need to reside in the open countryside as required by Objective CPO 6.41.
- The proposed development would contribute to the proliferation of non-essential housing in a rural landscape, which erodes the landscape value and detracts from the special amenity of the area.
- The extensive removal of approximately 52m of existing hedgerow and the significant land re-profiling required for the dwelling and driveway would militate against the protection of the rural and visual amenities of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 4.6CPO 4.10CPO 4.14CPO 4.15CPO 6.1CPO 6.3CPO 6.4CPO 6.41CPO 6.42CPO 6.44CPO 6.45CPO 6.46CPO 17.1CPO 17.14CPO 17.23CPO 17.26CPO 17.35
Decision Document Summary
Lillian Deegan applied for permission to construct a new dwelling, garage, and associated services at Aghowle Lower, Coolkenna, Co. Wicklow, within a Level 10 Rural Area. The application was refused primarily because the applicant did not adequately demonstrate a rural housing need, with the planner noting the availability of family lands in a nearby settlement. Additionally, the planning authority found that the proposed site works, including substantial hedgerow removal and site leveling, woul...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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