Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development as a 'Heavy Vehicle Park' materially contravenes the 'GB' (Greenbelt) zoning objective of the Fingal County Development Plan 2023-2029, as the applicant failed to demonstrate an established use or a specific need for the location, while also proposing boundary treatments detrimental to the rural character.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to prove that the trailer depot is an established use, meaning the proposal is assessed as a 'Heavy Vehicle Park' which is not permitted under the 'Green Belt' zoning objective.
- The removal of existing hedgerow and replacement with a 2.4-meter galvanised steel fence is an incongruous boundary treatment that fails to integrate with the established rural character.
- The Board cannot be satisfied that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of nearby European Sites (Baldoyle Bay and Malahide Estuary) due to a lack of clarity regarding the surface water outfall.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective GB (Greenbelt Zoning)Objective SPQHO102 (Development within Greenbelts)Objective SPQHO91 (Retention of Hedgerows)Objective ZO3 (Non-conforming uses)Fingal County Development Plan 2023-2029
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission for the intensification of a trailer depot for 20 empty trailers, a revised entrance, and a 2.4m galvanised steel fence at Stockhole Lane, Swords. The site is situated on lands zoned as Green Belt. Although the applicant claimed the use was established, the Inspector noted that photographic evidence only showed trailer storage since 2018, falling short of the 7-year immunity period, thus requiring assessment as a new development. The Inspector argued that the 'Hea...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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