2660216
(1) installation of a field access gate at the proposed entrance (2) construction of a concrete slab surface at the entrance, including the provision of an Eco-drain to manage surface water runoff and discharge it to an existing roadside open ditch (3) removal of existing small trees located to the north-west of the proposed field entrance, and their replacement with indigenous tree species, to be planted in a set-back position from the public road in order to maintain natural screening (4) removal of the existing hedgerows on both sides of the proposed field entrance and their replacement with indigenous hedgerows, to be planted set back from the public road tarmac, and also the creation of additional grass verges on both sides of the entrance in order to improve visibility and (5) associated site development works
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed agricultural entrance lacks demonstrated necessity and would require the removal of a natural roadside boundary to achieve sightlines, thereby creating a traffic hazard and setting an undesirable precedent.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide adequate justification or evidence of an agricultural need for the new entrance, making it contrary to policies protecting rural road capacity.
- Providing necessary sightlines would require extensive excavation and the removal of the existing natural sod/stone bank and hedgerow, which is contrary to the County Development Plan's heritage and landscape objectives.
- The proposal would endanger public safety by creating a traffic hazard on a narrow local road and would set an undesirable precedent for further unjustified entrances in the area.