2560567

Permission for retention of an unauthorised development consisting of: 1) Existing roofed concrete pergola to northwest side of existing house 2) Existing concrete light columns to rear of existing house 3) Existing small soccer pitch with v-mesh fencing to southwest corner of site. 4) Existing dwelling used as tourist accommodation & continuation of use as tourist accommodation.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The unauthorized change of use to short-term letting in a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) undermines long-term housing supply, combined with technical failures regarding wastewater treatment compliance and traffic safety concerns at a sub-standard junction.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The conversion of a residential unit to short-term tourist accommodation within a Rent Pressure Zone is contrary to national and local policies aimed at protecting the supply of permanent housing for long-term occupation.
  • The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence that the existing wastewater treatment system and percolation area comply with the EPA Code of Practice 2021, posing a potential risk to public health and the environment.
  • The intensification of traffic movements generated by a high-capacity tourist let at a sub-standard road junction would create a significant traffic hazard and endanger public safety.

Cited Policies (CDP)

NGB 6NGB 37Section 6.5.2Section 6.5.5Policy TOU25Policy TOU27Policy TOU 28HOU 3413.9.20IU19HOU 1Policy IU 18Policy NGB 3

Decision Document Summary

This application sought retention permission for several unauthorized developments at Cornamucklagh, Omeath, including a pergola, light columns, a soccer pitch, and the change of use of a dwelling to short-term tourist accommodation. The site is situated in a rural area of high scenic quality within a designated Rent Pressure Zone. Louth County Council refused the application on four grounds: the loss of residential housing stock in an RPZ, the failure to demonstrate adequate wastewater treatmen...
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