2360427
for the construction of a residential development consisting of 15 no. houses. The development will consist of the construction of: 8no. 4 bed semi-detached (2 storey) houses, 2no. 3 bed semi-detached (2 storey) houses, 3no. 3 bed terraced (2 storey) houses, 2no. 2 bed terraced houses. The proposed development will also include for: provision of public open space, private open space, bicycle parking, footpath connections, public lighting, landscaping and revised boundary treatments; Provision of carparking including ducting to all spaces for future EV charging points; Provision of an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing to traverse the R-347 Regional road; Connection to existing mains water infrastructure and foul drainage networks including on site surface water attenuation to serve the development, together with all associated site works and services. A Natura Impact Statement will be submitted to the planning authority with this application
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommends granting permission as the proposed development is located on residentially zoned and serviced lands within the settlement boundary of Athenry, complies with the sequential approach to urban development, and provides a sustainable density with adequate open space and connectivity.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is consistent with the Core and Settlement Strategies of the Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028 and the Athenry Local Area Plan 2024-2030 as it utilizes serviced, Phase 1 residential lands.
- The revised layout submitted at the appeal stage (14 units) successfully addresses density and open space concerns, providing an appropriate balance of 23.1 dwellings per hectare and 23% public open space.
- Potential impacts concerning flooding and traffic safety have been comprehensively mitigated through a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment and a Road Safety Audit, ensuring no adverse effects on the surrounding residential amenity or the environment.