Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is considered acceptable as it is compatible with the 'Local Centre' zoning objective, provides an essential community service for a vulnerable group, and is designed to integrate into the transitional zonal area without significantly impacting residential amenity, traffic safety, or the local environment.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed day centre is an appropriate use for lands zoned 'Local Centre' and aligns with Fingal Development Plan policies regarding social inclusion and the provision of healthcare facilities.
- The single-storey design, modest scale, and proposed boundary treatments are sufficient to prevent undue overlooking, overshadowing, or overbearance on neighboring residential properties.
- The development's impact on the local road network is considered negligible, with adequate on-site parking and sightlines provided, supported by the site's sustainable location near public transport and Swords town centre.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective LC 'Local Centre'Policy SPQHP15 – Social InclusionObjective SPQHO44 – Retention, Retrofitting and Retention of Existing DwellingsObjective CIOSO7 – Community Infrastructure and Local AmenityPolicy CIOSP9 – Education and HealthObjective CIOSO25 – Healthcare FacilitiesPolicy CAP8 – Retrofitting and Reuse of Existing BuildingsObjective GINHO46 – Tree RemovalObjective GINHO54 – SoilsObjective ZO2 – Transitional Zonal AreasDMSO77Objective DMSO116 – Provision of Building SetbacksSection 14.6.6.4 – Overlooking and OverbearanceObjective DMSO118 – Road Safety MeasuresObjective DMSO137 – Replacement of Removed TreesObjective DMSO138 – Protection and Enhancement of BiodiversityObjective DMSO143 – Habitat Facilities for Wildlife SpeciesSection 14.17.10 – Electric Vehicle ParkingSection 14.17.7 – Car ParkingSection 14.19.1.2 – Existing Buildings/StructuresSection 14.21.1 – Re-use of existing BuildingsObjective DMSO256 – Retrofitting and Re-Use of Existing BuildingsObjective SPQHP16 – Accessibility for AllObjective SPQHO27 – Location of Care FacilitiesObjective DMSO119 – Car Parking Limitation
Decision Document Summary
The proposal consists of the demolition of an existing vacant two-storey dwelling (330sqm) and the construction of a contemporary single-storey day centre for adults with disabilities (801sqm) at 57 Rathbeale Road, Swords. The 0.24ha site is situated within a 'Local Centre' zoning but acts as a transition to established residential areas. Key arguments within the report focus on the suitability of the community use and the justification for demolition, which the Inspector accepts based on the de...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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