Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is consistent with the 'RS' residential zoning objective of the Fingal County Development Plan 2023-2029, providing appropriate infill density in an accessible urban location near Swords. It integrates well with the streetscape and, subject to conditions, does not significantly impact residential amenity or traffic safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development complies with national and local policies promoting compact growth and higher densities (42 units per hectare) on serviced urban land within walking distance of Swords Town Centre.
- The layout and design, including the dormer elements, are subservient to the existing streetscape and do not result in undue overlooking or overshadowing of neighboring properties, particularly with the requirement for obscure glazing on specific windows.
- Condition No. 2 of the original grant is deemed unnecessary and should be removed, as extending Rathbeale Grove to the west is a more logical and sustainable method for providing future access to adjacent backlands than omitting a dwelling unit on this site.
Cited Policies (CDP)
RS Zoning ObjectivePolicy SPQHP35Policy SPQHP36Policy SPQHP38Policy SPQH038Policy SPQHO40Policy SPQHO41Objective SPQHO39Objective SPQHO42Objective SPQHO43Policy SPQH044Objective DAO11Objective DMSO19Section 14.6.6.4Section 14.8.1Objective DMSO26Objective DMSO27Objective DMS031Objective DMSO32Section 14.13.3.3Objective DMSO113Objective DMSO116Section 14.17.7Section 14.21.1Objective DMSO256
Decision Document Summary
The proposal at 41 Rathbeale Road, Swords, involves the remodeling of an existing bungalow and the construction of 8 new dwellings (1 dormer bungalow and 7 two-storey houses) on a 0.26ha site. The site occupies a prominent corner at the junction of Rathbeale Road and Brackenstown Avenue. While the Planning Authority originally granted permission subject to the omission of Unit 8 to facilitate future backland access, the Inspector recommends a full grant. The site context is predominantly residen...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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