Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to its discordant visual impact on an exposed rural landscape, the lack of an Appropriate Assessment screening for hydrologically linked protected sites, and the failure to address flood risk and groundwater vulnerability.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling would form a discordant and obtrusive feature on an open and exposed site, failing to integrate into the landscape or preserve the rural environment as required by Policy Objectives CPO 16.32 and 16.33.
- In the absence of an Appropriate Assessment Screening report, the Planning Authority cannot rule out significant adverse effects on the River Boyne and River Blackwater Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA).
- The site is located within 'Benefitting Lands' with high groundwater vulnerability, and the lack of a Flood Risk Assessment means the proposal represents a potential risk of groundwater pollution and flooding.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 10.105CPO 10.106
Decision Document Summary
This application proposed the construction of a three-bed bungalow, detached garage, and wastewater treatment system at Loughstown, Drumcree, Mullingar. The site is located in a rural area under strong urban influence and is hydrologically linked to the River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC/SPA. Westmeath County Council refused permission because the development would be visually obtrusive on an exposed site devoid of natural boundaries. Additionally, the applicants failed to submit required tech...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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