Core Refusal Reason
The proposed change from a thatched roof to natural slate would be visually incongruous and injurious to the character and visual amenities of the area, while setting an undesirable precedent for similar developments that would cumulatively undermine the unique architectural identity of Kilmore Quay village.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The dwelling is part of a cohesive group of four thatched houses whose uniform heritage-style design was a fundamental requirement of the parent planning permission to enhance the entrance to the village.
- Replacing the thatch with slate would create a visually jarring imbalance within the terrace and establish a precedent that would make it difficult to refuse similar applications for the remaining thatched properties.
- The appellant's difficulty in securing property insurance for thatched roofs, while noted, is not supported by sufficient evidence and does not outweigh the public interest in protecting the visual amenity and distinctiveness of the settlement.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028Chapter 3: Core StrategyTable 3-2 County Wexford Settlement HierarchySection 3.6.4 Level 3b Strategic SettlementsSettlement Strategy Objective CS18Chapter 5: Design and Place-making in Towns and VillagesObjective TV06Objective TV08Objective TV11Chapter 11: Landscape and Green InfrastructureVolume 7: Landscape Character AssessmentChapter 13: Heritage and ConservationSection 13.4 Built HeritageSection 13.4.8 Vernacular BuildingsVolume 2: Development Management ManualSection 3.4 Extensions to Dwelling Houses
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves changing the roof finish of a semi-detached dwelling at 3 Ard na Ba, Kilmore Quay, from thatch to natural slate. The site is located at a prominent entrance to the village and forms part of a cluster of four modern dwellings designed with vernacular features to reflect the historic character of the area. The Planning Authority refused permission on the grounds of negative impact on visual character and undesirable precedent. The Inspector notes that while the dwellings are ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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