Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to submit a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) required to assess and rule out potential significant adverse effects on the integrity of nearby European sites, specifically the Lough Corrib SAC and Monivea Bog SAC.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The planning authority determined that a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) was mandatory due to the site's proximity to Lough Corrib SAC and Monivea Bog SAC and the potential for significant effects related to effluent disposal and land spreading.
- Despite a formal request for Further Information, the applicant failed to submit the required NIS, providing instead an Appropriate Assessment Screening Report which was insufficient to address the identified environmental uncertainties.
- In the absence of scientific data and a completed NIS, the authority cannot be satisfied that the development will not adversely affect the integrity of European sites, resulting in a material contravention of the Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective NHB 1Policy Objective NHB 2Policy Objective NHB 3Policy Objective NHB 4Policy Objective NHB 5DM Standard 50DM Standard 13DM Standard 14Chapter 4Chapter 8Chapter 10Chapter 15
Decision Document Summary
John & Donal Coppenger sought permission for a 341sqm agricultural shed and manure storage facility at an established farmyard in Cormacuagh East, Ballinalsoe, Co. Galway. Although the development was considered acceptable in principle under agricultural zoning, its location near the Lough Corrib SAC and Monivea Bog SAC necessitated a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) to evaluate potential impacts on water quality and protected habitats. The application was refused because the applicant failed to pr...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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