2360877

for the construction of an earth-sheltered dwellinghouse, sewage treatment system & all associated site works

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The application was refused due to the applicant's failure to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need in a highly sensitive 'Iconic' landscape, coupled with technical deficiencies regarding road safety, visual impact assessment, and water connection feasibility.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The applicant failed to substantiate a genuine rural-generated housing need as required for a development in a Class 4 'Iconic' landscape under Policy Objective RH 4.
  • The proposal lacks essential technical documentation, specifically a Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) for the sensitive landscape and feasibility confirmation from Irish Water for the proposed water connection.
  • The proposed site entrance is deemed unsatisfactory and unsafe due to restricted forward sight distances for vehicles, where necessary remedial works would constitute an unacceptable intervention on a local route.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Policy Objective RC 2Policy Objective NBH 1Policy Objective NHB 3Policy Objective WR 1Policy Objective LCM 3Policy Objective WW 6Policy Objective WW 11DM Standard 7DM Standard 8DM Standard 9DM Standard 11DM Standard 28DM Standard 29DM Standard 36DM Standard 38DM Standard 46DM Standard 47DM Standard 50DM Standard 63Policy Objective RH 4Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective FL1Policy Objective LCM 1Policy Objective LCM 2DM Standard 67Policy Objective NNR2Policy Objective WS4

Decision Document Summary

Gerry McGrath sought permission for a 220sqm earth-sheltered dwelling and associated services at Clogher, Cong, Co. Galway. The site is situated in a greenfield agricultural area designated as an 'Iconic' Class 4 landscape. Galway County Council refused the application because the applicant did not prove a local rural housing need, failed to provide a Visual Impact Assessment or evidence of water connection feasibility, and proposed a site entrance with inadequate sightlines that would compromis...
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