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Retention of existing farm retail warehouse use. Permission is also sought for: (a) Change of use of part of existing storage to proposed extended farm retail warehouse use at ground floor level; (b) Construction of new single storey garden centre at ground floor level and (c) a new storage mezzanine at first floor level over the existing farm retail warehouse area and part of the proposed extended farm retail warehouse area, including 2 no. fire escape stairs and a service lift: (d) Alterations to north, south and western elevations, including provision of new entrance surround and fenestration, together with alterations to entrance approach and new signage; (e) Removal of disused fuel tanks and bunded surround and provision of additional car and bicycle parking; (f) All associated site works, fencing and services.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

Material contravention of the 'Business Development' zoning objective (BT-B-05) and violation of parent permission conditions regarding incidental retail use.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposal materially contravenes Objective BT-B-05 of the Cork County Development Plan 2022, which restricts the site's use to 'Business Development' and excludes retail warehousing.
  • The existing retail activity is not considered incidental to the primary storage function, thereby violating conditions of the parent planning permission (PL04.090925).
  • Permitting the development would negatively impact the vitality and viability of Bantry Town and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Objective BT-B-03Objective BT-B-05Cork County Development Plan 2022

Decision Document Summary

The application seeks the retention and extension of a farm retail warehouse at the Drinagh Farm Centre in Bantry, Co. Cork. The site is located east of the N71 and is zoned for 'Business Development' under the Cork County Development Plan 2022. The local authority refused the application because retail warehousing is specifically excluded from this zoning objective, unlike nearby lands to the west. Additionally, the scale of retail activity was found to exceed the 'incidental' use permitted und...
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