Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would cause significant adverse visual impact on a sensitive coastal landscape and failed to provide adequate environmental screening for nearby protected Natura 2000 sites.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The scale, location, and metal cladding of the proposed 464m2 structure would create an adverse visual impact and interfere with the scenic character of the Lowland Coastal Zone, directly contravening development plan policies intended to protect unique landscape character.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the development could not be situated at a less visually impactful alternative location on the landholding, resulting in haphazard development that militates against the preservation of the rural coastal environment.
- The submitted screening report was deemed substandard and failed to satisfy the Planning Authority that the proposal would not negatively impact the Broadhaven Bay SAC and the Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven Bay SPA.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy NEP 14Objective NEO 26Policy NEP 5Policy Area 2 - Lowland Coastal Zone
Decision Document Summary
Tony McGrath Fish Ltd proposed the construction of a 464m2 cold storage shed and ancillary works at Knocknalina, Ballyglass, Belmullet, located in a sensitive 'Lowland Coastal Zone' adjacent to an existing fish processing unit. Mayo County Council refused the application on the grounds that the industrial scale and finish of the building would significantly detract from the area's scenic coastal character and failed to meet the criteria for development along scenic routes. Furthermore, the counc...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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