22/5899

Permission for the development of 10 no. 2 bed, single storey/dormer bungalow dwelling houses of three varying types as part of an independent living scheme. The planning permission is to include the development of landscape and amenity spaces, a vehicular road and pedestrian path with street lighting to same with a new vehicular and pedestrian entrance to ‘The Terrace’ Road and all ancillary works. The Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the Planning authority with the application. The Natura Impact statement will be available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during office house at the offices of the Planning Authority.

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The proposed development represents an inefficient use of zoned residential land due to a low density (8.3 units per hectare) in a location with high accessibility to public transport, while also providing a cramped layout where house scales are disproportionately large relative to their private amenity spaces.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposed density of 8.3 units per hectare fails to meet the minimum efficiency thresholds required for zoned urban land located in close proximity to a rail station and sustainable mobility infrastructure.
  • The physical design and scale of the 110-140sqm dwellings on restricted plots results in a cramped form of development that provides substandard residential amenity and inadequate private open space.
  • The applicant failed to sufficiently demonstrate the specific operational criteria and purpose-built design features of the 'independent living scheme' to justify the proposed low-density suburban format on serviced lands.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Objective ZU 18-9Objective HOU 4-7Objective HOU 4-3Objective SC 6-11Objective TM 12-2Objective HE 16-21Objective GN-GO-02Objective GN-GO-03Objective GI 14-9Objective GI 14-16Objective RP 5-3Objective GN-R-01

Decision Document Summary

Glounthaune Homes Trust proposed an independent living scheme consisting of 10 houses and associated site works on a 1.21ha corner site in Johnstown, Glounthaune, Co. Cork. The site is characterized by significant topographical slopes and an existing stream that requires realignment. While Cork County Council initially granted permission, the Inspector recommended refusal following a third-party appeal. The core of the Inspector's argument rests on 'New Issues' regarding density and site layout....
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