Core Refusal Reason
The proposed demolition of a mid-19th century vernacular dwelling within the Athboy Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) would result in a significant loss of historic character and is contrary to development plan policies protecting architectural heritage.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The demolition of the existing single-storey dwelling, dating from circa 1840, would result in the loss of a significant contributor to the historic streetscape and the original character of the Athboy Architectural Conservation Area.
- The proposed replacement development is considered unsympathetic to the vernacular tradition of the site and fails to respect the height, scale, and plot density required for development within or contiguous to an ACA.
- The proposal is contrary to specific heritage policies (HER POL 19 and HER POL 21) of the Meath County Development Plan 2021-2027, which seek to protect the character of conservation areas and encourage the retention and sustainable re-use of historic buildings.
Cited Policies (CDP)
HER POL 19HER POL 20HER OBJ 22HER POL 21HER POL 22HER OBJ 14ATH POL 1ATH OBJ 1SH POL 8DM OBJ 15DM OBJ 16
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission to demolish an existing single-storey dwelling and outbuilding on a brownfield site at Connaught Street, Athboy, to facilitate the construction of three two-storey terraced townhouses. The subject site is located within the Athboy Architectural Conservation Area and contains a vernacular structure dating to approximately 1840. Meath County Council refused the application on the grounds that the demolition of the historic structure would adversely impact the charac...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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