Core Planning Reasoning
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine economic or social need to reside in this specific rural location, which is designated as an 'Area Under Strong Holiday Home Influence' and an 'Area of Especially High Scenic Amenity', thus representing a haphazard and unsustainable form of development contrary to Policy RH-P-2.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant has failed to provide sufficient documentary evidence to substantiate a genuine economic or social housing need as required under Policy RH-P-2 of the Donegal County Development Plan 2024-2030.
- While the proposed contemporary dwelling design is considered low-impact and capable of assimilation into the landscape without significant visual detriment, it does not meet the strict strategic or local need criteria for development in an 'Area of Especially High Scenic Amenity'.
- Technical issues related to wastewater treatment, surface water drainage, and access could be managed via planning conditions, but these do not override the fundamental policy non-compliance regarding rural housing strategy.
Cited Policies (CDP)
RH-O-1RH-O-2RH-O-4RH-P-2RH-P-9L-O-1L-P-1L-P-6WW-P-2WW-P-6CC-P-13Chapter 6 (Housing)Chapter 8 (Infrastructure)Chapter 11 (Natural, Built and Archaeological Heritage)Chapter 12 (Community Development)Chapter 16 (Technical Standards)
Decision Document Summary
Thomas Alcorn applied for permission to construct a single-storey 'H-shaped' dwelling and garage at Lurgabrack, Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal. The site is situated on the Horn Head peninsula in a landscape classified as 'sublime natural landscape' of 'Especially High Scenic Amenity'. Donegal County Council initially granted permission, but this was appealed by third parties citing concerns over visual impact, wastewater runoff, and heritage loss from stone wall removal. The Inspector found the technic...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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