Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a rural-generated housing need in an area under strong urban influence, and the proposed dwelling would be visually obtrusive on an elevated site requiring significant hedgerow removal.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to meet the criteria for rural residential development as they did not demonstrate an intrinsic link to the rural area, having previously resided and worked in the urban settlement of Kinnegad.
- The proposed development on an elevated site would be visually obtrusive and seriously detract from the visual amenities of the rural location, which is a recognized walking route.
- The required removal of a significant stretch of mature roadside hedgerow to achieve sightlines would adversely impact biodiversity and the rural character of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.19CPO 12.39CPO 16.32
Decision Document Summary
Mary Coyne sought permission for a 249sqm single-storey dwelling and associated works at Boreen Bradach, Kinnegad, an elevated site within a 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence.' Westmeath County Council refused the application because the applicant's housing need was considered urban-generated rather than rural-generated, as the applicant previously lived and worked in Kinnegad settlement. Additionally, the planning authority determined that the dwelling's prominent siting and the necessar...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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