Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority refused permission due to the alleged lack of capacity and 'Amber Status' of the Rosslare Strand Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP); however, the Inspector recommends granting permission, noting that the plant has sufficient headroom to accommodate this small-scale infill development.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development constitutes sustainable residential infill on a backland site that aligns with compact growth policies and does not negatively impact local amenities.
- Official data in the County Development Plan (Table 9-3) confirms the Rosslare WWTP has a capacity of 8,500PE and headroom of 2,826PE, contradicting the Planning Authority's primary reason for refusal.
- Irish Water has no objection to the connection in principle, and a standard connection agreement condition is sufficient to address any infrastructure concerns.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028Section 9.6 WastewaterTable 9-3 Overview of Public Wastewater InfrastructureTable 9-4 EPA Urban Wastewater Areas of ConcernTable 9-5 Irish Water Investment PlanObjective WW04Objective WW05Objective WW06Objective WW07Objective WW08Objective WW13
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Ben Haskins, seeks permission for 3 no. three-bedroom houses on a 0.27ha vacant backland site in Drimagh, Rosslare, Co. Wexford. The development includes two contemporary two-storey houses and one single-storey house, along with the upgrade of a private access lane. The Planning Authority refused the application on a single ground: that the development would be premature pending upgrades to the local wastewater treatment plant. The Inspector argues that this refusal is inconsisten...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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