2450106

(1) DEMOLITION OF EXISTING BUILDING AND (2) ERECTION OF NEW BUILDING WHICH WILL INCORPORATE (A) A CLASS 1 COMMERCIAL BUILDING, (B) SHOP, (C) POST OFFICE, (D) OFF-LICENCE, (E) STORE, (F) DELI, (G) TOILETS INCLUDING ACCESSIBLE TOILETS, (H) STAFF WELFARE FACILITIES, (I) FORECOURT, (J) REPLACEMENT OF UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS AND PUMPS, (K) EXTERNAL CANOPY, (L) ASSOCIATED SIGNAGE AND (M) ALL OTHER ASSOCIATED SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS INCLUDING A SPACE FOR A MEMORIAL GARDEN

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The proposed development is refused due to poor architectural design that is out of character with its surroundings, and because the memorial element is deemed insensitive, disjointed, and inappropriately sited near hazardous vehicular movements.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The generic, industrial design and scale of the building fail to respect the prominent village entrance and would negatively impact the visual amenity and character of Creeslough.
  • The memorial garden and architectural installation are poorly integrated into the site layout, appearing incidental and creating a safety risk for visitors due to proximity to car parking and vehicular exits.
  • The proposal fails to provide an appropriate or respectful architectural response to a site marked by significant loss and emotional trauma, thereby conflicting with proper planning and sustainable development.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Objective S-O-5 (Regeneration and renewal)Policy CS-P-1 (Settlement Framework)Policy ED-P-9 (Economic development criteria)Policy TV-P-6 (Shopfront design)Chapter 16 - Technical Standards (Petrol Filling Stations)Table 16.8 (Car Parking Standards)

Decision Document Summary

This report evaluates a planning application to rebuild a commercial complex and petrol forecourt on the site of the tragic October 2022 explosion in Creeslough, Co. Donegal. The proposal involves the demolition of remaining structures and the erection of an 812 sqm building housing a shop, post office, and deli, alongside a new forecourt and memorial spaces. While the site is a brownfield location within a settlement boundary where such uses are acceptable in principle, the Inspector argues tha...
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