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EXTENSION OF DURATION for proposed change of use and refurbishment of the existing derelict 588sqm National School building to proposed new living accommodation consisting of 2No. one bed and 7 No. two bed units. The change of use and refurbishment works include minor alterations to existing fenestration and internal layout of the existing structure as well as removing the existing car park to extend the green space. Works to the North boundary include the partial infill of existing vehicle entrance to match existing. The existing derelict 52.6 sq. storage shed will be subdivided into four external storage space with the addition of 3 no. door openings, the development to include the construction of 4 No. two storey two bed semi detached dwellings to the east of the site and 12 no. detached two storey three bed dwellings to the south of the site with provisions for solar/PV panels and off street parking. the development will also involve the construction of a new site entrance off the public road, shared access road, footpaths, public open space, private open space apartment unit carparking spaces, boundary walls, bin and cycle storage, landscaping, partial demolition of east boundary wall and all associated site works and services at the Former St. Joseph's National School, Rathwire lower, County Westmeath. St. Joseph's National School building in Rathwire is a protected structure recorded in Westmeath County Development Plan 2014-2020 RPS Reference Number 020-023
Core Refusal Reason
The application failed to meet the statutory requirements of Section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as development works had not commenced on-site and no substantial works were carried out during the original permission period.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- A site inspection confirmed that development works associated with the original planning permission (Ref 18/6394) have not commenced on the subject site.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that substantial works were carried out pursuant to the permission during the appropriate period as required by legislation.
- The application does not accord with the mandatory requirements of Section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) for granting an extension of duration.