Core Refusal Reason
The proposed residential development is located on lands zoned for 'Open Space/Recreation & Amenity' where residential use is not permitted, and the application failed to adequately address flood risk and biodiversity preservation.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal materially contravenes the 'Open Space/Recreation & Amenity' zoning objective of the Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028, which does not permit residential development on these lands.
- The applicant failed to submit a Site-Specific Flood Risk Assessment despite the site's location in Flood Zone C and proximity to a floodplain, meaning the Planning Authority could not be satisfied that the site is not at risk of flooding.
- The proposed removal of existing stone walls and mature hedgerows, coupled with a lack of regard for biodiversity in the landscape design, contravenes DM Standard 47 and is contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028Volume 2 Table 10.5 (Land Use Zoning Matrix)Policy Objective FL 1Policy Objective FL 2Policy Objective FL 18DM Standard 47DM Standard 68
Decision Document Summary
Grainne O’Flaherty sought permission for a two-storey, 4-bedroom dwelling house, domestic garage, and ancillary services at Canrawer East, Oughterard, Co. Galway. The greenfield site is located within the Oughterard settlement boundary but is specifically zoned for 'Open Space/Recreation & Amenity'. Galway County Council refused the application primarily because residential development is not permitted under this zoning. Additionally, the planning authority cited the absence of a required Flood ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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