24/6058
Permission for modifications to the site layout permitted under Ref. No. 14/6792 and 23/4232 and all ancillary signage, car parking, landscaping and associated site development works at Convent Garden, Winter’s Hill, in the townland of Town-Plots, Kinsale, Co. Cork. The proposed modifications to the permitted site layout include: (a) Changes to the permitted road layout; (b) The construction a new private entrance from Winter’s Hill to provide private vehicle and pedestrian access to the 7 no. dwellings permitted under ref. no. 23/4232; (c) New entrance and exit gates; and (d) Alterations to the permitted public open space including the erection of 2 metre high fencing. The proposed development also includes modifications to the layout within the front curtilage of the permitted F1 house consisting of a revised driveway location and the construction of a carport and stone wall.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes poor urban design that negatively impacts public open space, community integration, and the character of the Architectural Conservation Area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The use of steel fencing to segregate access to central public open space creates an unsightly and non-inclusive residential environment.
- The modifications result in the loss and reduction of public open space that was specifically enlarged during the assessment of the parent permission.
- The proposed private gated entrances conflict with the requirement to retain the historic boundary wall within an Architectural Conservation Area and risk causing confusion for visitors and delivery drivers.