Core Refusal Reason
The applicants failed to demonstrate a functional economic or social local need to reside in a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence' as required by Policy SSP-27 of the Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicants do not meet the social requirement criteria as evidence shows they grew up in the settlement of Clara, which is specifically excluded from the definition of a 'local rural area' under Policy SSP-27.
- The applicant's professional role as a manager with Waterways Ireland does not constitute a functional economic need to reside in a rural area, as the work is not predominantly rural-based and the site is 8km from the canal.
- The proposed development would materially contravene the Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027 and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
SSP-27DMS-45DMS-46DMS-47DMS-48DMS-50DMS-51DMS-52DMS-53DMS-57DMS-97
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involved the construction of a two-storey dwelling and domestic garage on a 0.2-hectare agricultural site at Lehinch, Clara, Co. Offaly. The site is situated in an area designated as a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence' where a positive presumption for housing is only granted to those with a proven local need. The application was refused because the applicants failed to satisfy the economic or social requirements of Policy SSP-27, as their background was linked to an urban se...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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