2560689
Retention permission for the demolition of a vernacular dwelling and the retention and completion of a replacement dwelling and all site development works. Note all foul / surface water drainage and vehicular access as per the original granted planning permission reference number 2460639 (alterations and extensions to existing two storey dwelling including construction of two storey extensions to the sides & rear of the dwelling, elevational & internal arrangement changes, alterations to a single storey outbuilding, revised vehicular entrance arrangement, new effluent treatment system/percolation area, new soakaways and all site development works)
Core Refusal Reason
The unauthorized demolition of a structurally sound vernacular dwelling and its replacement with a new structure, which contravenes specific County Development Plan policies protecting rural built heritage and the strict criteria for replacement dwellings.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The original dwelling was of significant vernacular merit and was previously determined by a structural survey to be sound and capable of refurbishment; therefore, its total demolition is unjustified and contrary to Policy Objectives HOU 48 and BHC 42.
- The proposal fails to satisfy the criteria for a replacement dwelling under Policy Objective HOU 51 and Section 13.9.13, as these provisions are intended for non-vernacular structures and do not support the replacement of habitable or restorable vernacular heritage.
- Granting retention for the demolition and replacement would set an undesirable precedent for the further loss of the county's rural architectural heritage and would materially contravene the Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027.