Core Refusal Reason
The applicants failed to demonstrate a valid rural housing need as they already own a dwelling in the area, and the proposal would exacerbate ribbon development and excessive housing density in an area under urban influence.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicants do not qualify for a second rural house under the current development plan as their housing need was previously met through a prior planning permission (Ref P05/988) for their existing family home.
- The proposed development would contribute to the over-proliferation of one-off housing and ribbon development in an unzoned rural area that is already under significant development pressure and has reached saturation point.
- The proposal would intensify urban sprawl, injure the visual amenity and rural character of the area, and lead to uneconomic demands for public services outside of the Thomastown zoned area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 7.8.3 Rural Housing PolicySection 7.8.4 Categories of Rural Compliance and Qualifying criteriaFigure 7.1 Rural Housing StrategyThomastown Local Area Plan 2019
Decision Document Summary
Michael and Sheila O’Byrne sought permission to construct a new two-bedroom house at Jerpoint West, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, intended as a downsizing option due to age and medical circumstances. The site is located in a rural area classified as an 'Area Under Urban Influence' with a high density of existing one-off houses. The application was refused primarily because the applicants already own a substantial dwelling in the immediate vicinity, meaning they do not meet the 'first home' criteria ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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