Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to unsuitable site drainage conditions posing a risk to public health and protected habitats, alongside a design that was deemed incompatible with the rural character of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The site exhibits poor drainage characteristics and a high water table, creating an unacceptable risk to public health and the conservation objectives of nearby Natura 2000 sites.
- There is a technical incongruence between the proposed five-bedroom dwelling and the wastewater treatment system, which was only recommended for a four-bedroom population.
- The bulk, scale, and symmetrical design of the two-storey dwelling are considered inappropriate for this rural location and would detract from the visual amenity and character of the landscape.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RH 3Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective RH 14Policy Objective WW 6Policy Objective NHB 3LCM 1LCM 2DM Standard 8DM Standard 38
Decision Document Summary
Dermot O’Brien and Orla Byrne sought permission for a 313 sqm two-storey dwelling and garage at Cloonminda, Williamstown, Co. Galway. The site is an agricultural greenfield in a structurally weak rural area. The Planning Authority refused the application primarily because site inspections revealed a high water table and poor percolation, threatening groundwater quality and nearby SACs. Additionally, the proposed house design was judged to be excessive in scale and massing, failing to integrate e...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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