Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the inappropriate subdivision of a larger agricultural field and the excessive removal of 97 metres of mature hedgerow to facilitate sightlines, which would negatively impact the rural character and local biodiversity.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development involves the creation of three new boundaries and the carving out of a separate parcel from a larger landholding, which fails to integrate with the existing rural field pattern and erodes the area's established character.
- The required removal of approximately 97 metres of mature hedgerow to achieve necessary sightlines would result in a significant disconnect of green infrastructure and negatively impact local flora and fauna.
- The proposal is contrary to several key policies and objectives of the Kildare County Development Plan 2023-2029, specifically those aimed at protecting rural character and minimising hedgerow removal.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 9.3Section 3.13Section 3.13.3Policy HO P11Policy HO P12Policy HO P13Policy HO P14Policy HO P15Policy HO P26Policy HO P27Objective HO O43Objective HO O44Objective HO O51Objective HO O52Objective HO O59Objective TM O102Policy BI P6Objective BI O26Objective BI O27Policy LR P1Objective LR O4Section 15.7.5Section 15.7.6Appendix 4: Rural House Design Guide
Decision Document Summary
Graham Murphy sought planning permission for a detached dwelling, garage, and new vehicular entrance at Woodlands East, Castledermot, Co. Kildare, on a 2.1-hectare unzoned agricultural site. While the applicant demonstrated a local need for housing, the proposal was refused because it necessitated the subdivision of a larger field and the removal of 97 metres of existing hedgerow. The local authority concluded that these actions would undermine the rural character of the area, damage green infra...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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