Core Planning Reasoning
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural-generated housing need (social or economic) in an area designated as a 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence', contrary to the Cork County Development Plan 2022-2028 and National Policy Objective 19 of the National Planning Framework.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant has not sufficiently demonstrated a genuine rural-generated housing need as her primary employment is in Cork City and she already part-owns another dwelling, the details of which were not clarified.
- While the proposed design is modest and would not have a significant adverse visual impact or negatively affect residential amenity, these factors do not override the failure to meet core rural housing policy requirements.
- In the absence of a proven locally based need, the development would result in a haphazard and unsustainable form of development in an unserviced area and undermine the local settlement strategy.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RP 5-4Objective GI 6-1National Policy Objective 19Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2005)
Decision Document Summary
The application proposed a 183.1sq.m single-storey house with an on-site wastewater treatment system at Rostellan, Midleton. The site is located in a 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence' characterized by significant pressure for urban-generated housing. Although Cork County Council initially granted permission, a third-party appeal was lodged citing concerns over backland development, visual impact on the R631, and overlooking. The Inspector dismissed the residential amenity and visual impa...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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