Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need as they had previously been granted permission for a dwelling in the area, and current policy does not provide for the construction of a second rural dwelling.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant does not meet the criteria for rural residential development in an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence' as they have previously availed of such provisions for a dwelling at Cappanrush (Ref 97/437).
- Policy CPO 9.1 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 and the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines (2005) do not permit the construction of a second dwelling for an individual whose housing need has already been met.
- The proposed development would result in non-essential dispersed residential development in a rural area, which is contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the region.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1
Decision Document Summary
This application sought permission for a dwelling house, treatment system, and shared entrance at Ballymachugh, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, located within a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence'. Westmeath County Council refused the application primarily because the applicant had already been granted planning permission for a house in the locality (Ref 97/437). Consequently, the applicant failed to satisfy the local housing need criteria set out in Policy CPO 9.1 of the County Development Plan...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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