Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need in an area under strong urban influence, as she already owns and resides in a dwelling immediately adjacent to the subject site.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant does not meet the local housing need criteria set out in Policy CPO 9.1 because she already owns a permanent residence, built in 2000, on the landholding adjacent to the proposed site.
- The proposed development is considered urban-generated and contrary to the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines (2005), as it would contribute to unsustainable development patterns in a rural area under strong urban influence.
- The planning authority determined that the applicant's medical and downsizing requirements could be adequately addressed through the extension or modification of her existing dwelling rather than the construction of a new standalone house.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.15CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
The proposal sought permission for a 107.9sqm single-storey detached dwelling and a wastewater treatment system at Whispering Woods, Galmoylestown, Co. Westmeath. The site is situated in a rural area designated as being under 'Strong Urban Influence'. The application was refused because the applicant already owns a house on the adjacent plot, meaning she does not comply with the rural housing need requirements of Policy CPO 9.1 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027. The authority co...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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