Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to the absence of a Natura Impact Statement to rule out significant effects on the Bannow Bay SAC and SPA, and a lack of technical justification regarding the effectiveness and impact of the works on the surrounding coastal environment.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- Significant effects on the Bannow Bay SAC and SPA cannot be excluded; therefore, the application is deficient in the absence of a Natura Impact Statement (NIS).
- The submitted design lacks critical technical details—such as revetment crest width, gradients, and endpoint locations—making it impossible to verify the effectiveness of the works or ensure they won't exacerbate erosion elsewhere.
- The proposal is contrary to the Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028, specifically objectives relating to the protection of Natura 2000 sites and the requirement for evidence-based coastal protection management.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective CZM32Objective CZM33Objective CZM43Objective NH01Objective NH04Objective NH05Objective NH08Objective NH06Objective NH07Policy CZ2
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the construction of a 50m rock armour revetment at the base of cliffs in Grange, Fethard, Co. Wexford, to protect an existing dwelling from coastal erosion. The site is highly sensitive, partially overlapping with the Bannow Bay Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC). While the principle of protecting inhabited dwellings is supported by the Wexford County Development Plan under specific conditions, the Inspector found the application fundamenta...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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