SD24A/0267W
The proposed development will consist of a high-power electric vehicle charging hub and associated infrastructure consisting of the following: (I) Installation of 10no. electric vehicle charging bays & 5no. charging units, (ii) Installation of a new canopy above EV charging spaces with internal illuminated signage, (iii) Installation of a new ESB Substation and (iv) All other associated site development works including, new landscaping and boundary treatment, and surface water drainage infrastructure including the installation of new Class 2 By-pass Klar ester oil and fuel separator and permeable paving.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would materially contravene the 'OS: Open Space' zoning objective of the South Dublin County Development Plan 2022-2028, as the electric vehicle charging hub is considered ancillary to a petrol station use, which is specifically 'Not Permitted' within lands zoned for open space and recreational amenities.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is not considered a 'public service' or a 'non-conforming use' extension, but rather an expansion of a petrol station use into lands where such use is expressly prohibited.
- Despite broad national and local policy support for electric vehicle infrastructure, these objectives do not override the specific land use zoning protection intended to preserve open space and provide residential buffering.
- The Board is not justified in granting permission under Section 37(2)(b) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as the proposal is of local rather than strategic national importance and the Development Plan objectives are clear and without conflict.