2660257

The development will consist of a proposed rural enterprise consisting of two sauna pods including hot tubs and ice baths, new outdoor shower facilities, bin store, bicycle store and parking facilities. The proposed change of use of an existing agricultural cow shed to changing facilities, reception area, toilet, storage and plant facilities, a proposed wastewater disposal system, a proposed entrance and all associated site works.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The proposal is an unsustainable, car-dependent commercial enterprise in an un-serviced rural area that lacks planning justification, negatively impacts a high-value landscape and residential amenity, and is supported by insufficient technical and ecological data.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The development represents an unsustainable and car-dependent commercial use in an un-serviced rural location, lacking robust justification for its siting outside of a designated settlement centre.
  • The project would seriously injure the visual and residential amenities of the area due to its haphazard design, the removal of approximately 100m of mature hedgerows, and potential noise and traffic disturbances to neighbouring residents.
  • The application is fundamentally deficient due to the absence of critical technical documentation, specifically regarding bat surveys, noise impact assessments, traffic visibility splays, and compliant surface water management designs.

Cited Policies (CDP)

ED POL 16ED POL 18ED POL 19ED POL 24HER POL 31HER OBJ 35HER POL 37HER POL 40HER POL 53INF POL 16

Decision Document Summary

This application by Thomas Delany proposed a rural wellness enterprise featuring sauna pods, hot tubs, and the conversion of an existing agricultural cow shed into a reception and changing facility at Growtown, Batterstown, Co. Meath. The site is situated within a rural area of high landscape character value. Meath County Council refused permission on the grounds that the development is unsustainable, car-dependent, and lacks a robust planning justification for its rural setting. Additionally, t...
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