Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need under Policy CPO 9.1 as she already owns an adjacent dwelling, and failed to establish the feasibility of public water and wastewater connections.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant does not comply with planning policy CPO 9.1 as she already owns a permanent residential dwelling located immediately adjacent to the subject site and therefore lacks a demonstrated rural housing need.
- The proposed development is considered urban-generated residential development in a rural area under strong urban influence, which contravenes the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2005).
- In the absence of confirmation from Uisce Éireann regarding the feasibility of connection to public infrastructure, it has not been established that the site can be appropriately served by water and wastewater services, which is prejudicial to public health.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
Joy Judge proposed the construction of a 107.9sqm single-storey detached dwelling and a wastewater treatment system at Whispering Woods, Galmoylestown, Co. Westmeath. The site is located in a rural area under 'Strong Urban Influence' and currently functions as the side garden of the applicant's existing home. Westmeath County Council refused permission because the applicant already owns a residence on the adjacent plot, meaning the proposal does not meet the local housing need criteria set out i...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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