Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused primarily due to traffic safety concerns regarding a new entrance onto a high-speed regional road (R429), the inability to achieve required sightlines without third-party land, and the negative environmental impact of extensive hedgerow removal.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal would materially contravene Policy TRANS 23 of the Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027, which restricts new access points onto regional roads where speed limits exceed 50kmph.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the required 160m sightlines could be achieved within the site boundary, necessitating third-party land take for which no consent was provided, thereby creating a traffic hazard.
- The extensive removal of 65m of existing hedgerow to facilitate access would be contrary to policies protecting native hedgerows and would result in a significant loss of natural habitat and visual amenity.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy TRANS 23Table 4.4Appendix 7DM RH 1(c)Policy DM BNH27Policy DM BNH28Policy DM BNH30
Decision Document Summary
Aoife & James Byrne sought permission to construct a 256.73sqm dormer dwelling, domestic garage, and associated services at Rossena, Ballickmoyler, Co. Laois. The 0.4-hectare site is located in a rural area designated as being under 'Strong Urban Influence'. While the applicant demonstrated a local rural connection, the proposal was refused primarily due to traffic safety concerns regarding a new entrance onto the R429 regional road where an 80kmph speed limit applies. Additionally, the required...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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