Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to its failure to integrate into a sensitive coastal landscape, inadequate site drainage for safe effluent disposal, and the potential for cumulative negative impacts on water quality and European sites.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling would result in a built form that fails to appropriately integrate into the Class 3 Special Landscape Sensitivity area, detracting from the visual amenity and character of this rural coastal location.
- The Planning Authority is not satisfied that domestic effluent can be safely disposed of on-site due to poor drainage characteristics, peaty substrates, and evidence of previous backfilling, which contravenes EPA standards and poses a risk to public health.
- The proposal would result in an excessive concentration of private effluent treatment systems in the area, posing a significant risk to water quality and the conservation objectives of nearby European sites (Natura 2000 designations).
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective LCM 2Policy Objective LCM 3DM Standard 8DM Standard 46Policy Objective WW6DM Standard 38Policy Objective RH 11Policy Objective RC 2Policy Objective WS 4DM Standard 36
Decision Document Summary
This application by Micheál O Domhnaill proposed the construction of a new residential dwelling, garage, and sewage treatment system on a greenfield site at An Caorán Beag, An Cheathrú Rua. The site is located in a scenic coastal Gaeltacht area designated as a Class 3 'Special' landscape. Although the applicant established a rural housing need, Galway County Council refused permission on three main grounds: the negative visual impact on a sensitive landscape, the unsuitability of the site's soil...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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