SD23A/0208

Permission is sought to retain a single storey family farm house located on the applicant's farm holding, along with all associated site development works; the development will be accessed via an existing roadway serving the existing farm, as previously permitted under Ref. SD09A/0347. Permission is sought to reclad the existing dwelling with white plastered blockwork and provision of slate roof to same.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The applicant failed to demonstrate an exceptional site-specific need for a dwelling at this elevated, sensitive location within the Dublin Mountains High Amenity zone, and the development would constitute a traffic hazard on a substandard rural lane.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The applicant has not established a persuasive rationale for choosing this specific site on the overall landholding, failing to meet the exceptional circumstances criteria for the HA-DM zoning objective.
  • The proposed retention and permanent cladding of the structure would negatively impact the outstanding natural character of the Dublin Mountains and interfere with protected views, particularly in the absence of a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.
  • The development would endanger public safety due to the substandard width and alignment of Ballymana Lane, which lacks the capacity to safely accommodate the additional traffic generated by a permanent residence and associated agri-contracting business.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Policy H19 Objective 1Policy H23 Objective 1Section 12.6.9Policy NCBH15 Objective 1Policy NCBH15 Objective 2Policy NCBH6Policy H16Policy H17Policy NCBH1 Objective 2

Decision Document Summary

The application seeks retention of a 96sqm timber structure as a family farmhouse and permission to reclad it with plastered blockwork and a slate roof. The site is located in an elevated, high-amenity area of the Dublin Mountains on a 34.3 ha farm holding. While the Inspector acknowledges the applicant's status as a native farmer, the report highlights that the specific site was previously designated as a machinery bypass and is unsuitable for a permanent dwelling. Key arguments for refusal inc...
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