22/5298
The importation of clean and inert soil and stone, for a duration of 8 years, for the purpose of raising the levels of a disused quarry in order to improve the agricultural output of the site, including all associated site enabling works to facilitate the development, including construction of a proposed infiltration basin/pond and an artificial pond. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the authority with this application.
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission on the basis that the development is consistent with the objectives of the Cork County Development Plan regarding soil importation and agricultural improvement. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, the development will not significantly impact residential amenity, traffic safety, or the integrity of the Blackwater River SAC.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development falls below the mandatory threshold for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and is not likely to result in significant environmental effects.
- The Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment determined that, following the implementation of robust mitigation measures (including silt management and a closed surface water system), the project will not adversely affect the integrity of the Blackwater River SAC.
- The proposal is considered acceptable in terms of traffic safety, noise, and dust impacts, and represents a sustainable use of inert waste to improve agricultural land.