Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused because the development had not commenced, and current legislation no longer permits an extension of duration for non-commenced developments where substantial works have not been carried out.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- A site inspection conducted on 17/02/2026 confirmed that development works on the proposed school extension and ASD unit have not yet commenced.
- Legislative amendments introduced by Section 28(1) of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 removed the provision for extending planning permission for non-commenced developments.
- As the development has not started and no substantial works have been carried out, the Planning Authority is legally precluded from granting an extension of duration under Section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
Cited Policies (CDP)
Decision Document Summary
The Board of Management of De La Salle College sought a three-year extension of duration for planning permission (Ref: 21/558) relating to a two-storey school extension and ASD unit at their campus on Castleblayney Road, Dundalk. While the applicant noted the project was awaiting Department of Education approval to proceed to tender, a site inspection confirmed that no physical works had commenced on-site. Louth County Council refused the extension because current planning legislation has remove...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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