24/4013

Permission for raising of ground levels with inert soil and stone to improve the agricultural potential of the lands, it will include the upgrade of existing site entrance onto local road L-4021-25, construction of temporary haul roads, installation of surface water management measures, site signage, installation of a wheel wash and portacabin for the duration of the work and all ancillary site works. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the planning authority with the application.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

Potential significant adverse impacts on protected European sites (SAC/SPA) and local wetland habitats due to nutrient runoff and insufficient environmental safeguards.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The Planning Authority is not satisfied that the proposed infilling would not significantly affect the integrity of the Courtmacsherry Estuary Special Area of Conservation and Courtmacsherry Bay Special Protection Area.
  • The development could give rise to nutrient input into an adjoining wetland habitat of County importance and the Barryshall River, leading to significant environmental impacts that cannot be discounted.
  • The proposal materially contravenes Objectives BE 15-2 and BE 15-17 of the Cork County Development Plan 2022, which seek to protect natural heritage sites and ensure land infilling is compatible with environmental resources.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Objective BE 15-2Objective BE 15-17

Decision Document Summary

The proposal sought permission to raise ground levels at Aghmanister & Spital Townlands, Timoleague, using inert soil and stone for land improvement. The application was refused because the site is located immediately adjacent to a wetland of County importance and near the Barryshall River, which feeds into protected European sites. The Planning Authority determined that the applicant failed to demonstrate that the works would not negatively impact the integrity of the Courtmacsherry Estuary SAC...
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