Core Planning Reasoning
The applicants failed to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need based on exceptional health circumstances for this specific location under Policy RH-P-3, and the proposed wastewater treatment system was deemed unsuitable for the site's wet ground conditions and high water table.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicants failed to provide sufficient justification that their health circumstances necessitate residing at this specific rural site rather than in a serviced area or their current residence.
- The site exhibits poor percolation and a high water table, meaning the proposed wastewater treatment system poses an unacceptable risk of pollution to ground and surface waters.
- While the architectural design and site access were found to be acceptable, they do not override the fundamental failure to meet rural housing policy and environmental safety standards.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy RH-P-3Policy RH-P-1Policy RH-P-2Policy T-P-15Policy NH-P-17Section 2.11Appendix 4Map 7.1.1
Decision Document Summary
The application proposed a single-storey dwelling, domestic shed, and a wastewater treatment system (WWTS) on a 0.371-hectare site at Cashelgay, Co. Donegal, situated within a 'Stronger Rural Area' and an area of High Scenic Amenity. The applicants sought permission based on Denise Coyle's exceptional health and mobility needs, requiring a single-storey residence close to Letterkenny. While Donegal County Council initially granted permission, the Inspector recommended refusal following a third-p...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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