Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes overdevelopment of the site due to its excessive scale, close proximity to boundaries, and the significant lack of quality private open space to serve the dwelling, which fails to protect and improve the residential amenity of the area contrary to the 'RS' zoning objective.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The extension's significant footprint results in an almost total loss of useable rear private open space, which is inconsistent with the character of the existing area and fails to meet minimum amenity standards.
- The layout and bulk of the development in close proximity to western and northern boundaries create an excessive urban appearance that unduly harms the residential setting.
- Granting permission for this form of development would set an undesirable precedent for similar projects that erode private open space standards and the character of established residential areas.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Fingal County Development Plan 2023 – 2029RS Zoning ObjectiveSection 3.5.13 (Compact Growth)SPQHP38Objective SPQHO37Section 3.5.13.1 (Residential Extensions)SPQHP41SPQHO45Table 8.1 Aircraft Noise ZonesSection 14.8.3 (Private Open Space)Section 14.10.2 (Residential Extensions)Section 14.10.2.2 (Side Extensions)Section 14.10.2.3 (Ground Floor Extensions (rear))
Decision Document Summary
This appeal relates to a refusal by Fingal County Council for the retention of alterations to a previously approved extension and the construction of a hipped roof at 'The Coaches', Malahide Road, Swords. The subject site is a long, narrow bungalow plot in a mature residential area. The Inspector noted that the extensions result in an 'excessively built out' appearance with no remaining quality open space to the rear. While the appellant cited high-density precedents in the vicinity, the Inspect...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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