Core Refusal Reason
The applicants failed to demonstrate a functional need for a new dwelling given their existing ownership of an adjacent rural property, coupled with unresolved disputes regarding legal access to the site.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal fails to comply with Rural Housing Policy SSP-27 as the applicants already own a rural dwelling directly adjacent to the subject site.
- The applicants have not provided sufficient justification for the necessity of a new standalone dwelling rather than extending or modifying their existing property to meet their family needs.
- The application has not demonstrated a clear legal right of way or secure access to the site from the public road via the private laneway following a third-party ownership challenge.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy SSP-27DMS-57Chapter 2Chapter 13
Decision Document Summary
The proposal sought permission for a two-storey dwelling, domestic outbuilding, and associated services at Killina, Rahan, Co. Offaly, within a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence'. While the site's design and siting were considered acceptable, the application was refused primarily on policy grounds. Under Policy SSP-27 of the County Development Plan, applicants must demonstrate a need for a permanent home and typically should not already own a house in the open countryside; as the applican...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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