Core Refusal Reason
The Inspector recommends a grant of permission, overturning the Planning Authority's refusal, concluding that while the proposed direct vehicular access onto Stocking Lane would create a traffic hazard, the development is acceptable as a car-free infill dwelling due to its highly accessible suburban location near high-frequency public transport.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed infill dwelling is consistent with the 'RES' zoning objective and broader national and local planning policies promoting compact growth and urban consolidation.
- The provision of a new direct vehicular entrance onto Stocking Lane would constitute a traffic hazard and endanger public safety due to its proximity to a bend, a bus stop, and other existing entrances.
- A grant of permission is warranted subject to a condition omitting the vehicular entrance and dedicated car parking, as the site is in an 'Accessible' location served by high-frequency public transport (Route 15B).
Cited Policies (CDP)
Zoning Objective 'RES'Policy CS4 (Active Land Management) Objective 2Policy CS6 (Settlement Strategy – Strategic Planning Principles) Objective 2Policy H1 Objective 7Policy H13 (Residential Consolidation)Section 12.6.8 (Residential Consolidation / Corner / Side Garden Sites)Chapter 7 (Sustainable Movement) Policy SM5Section 12.7.4 (Car parking standards)Section 12.7.6 (Car Parking Design Layout)
Decision Document Summary
The proposal seeks to construct a detached four-bedroom infill house on a 0.04-hectare wedge-shaped site on Stocking Lane, Rathfarnham, adjacent to the recently completed 'Laurel Manor' development. South Dublin County Council initially refused permission primarily due to traffic safety concerns regarding a new vehicular access point onto the heavily trafficked R115. The Inspector's report acknowledges a complex planning history on the site with previous refusals for larger houses. While the Ins...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.