Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to its elevated and exposed siting, combined with an excessively long access road, which would result in a visually obtrusive structure that fails to integrate into the rural landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The dwelling's elevated position, approximately 4 metres above the public road level, would make it visually prominent and incongruous within the exposed rural landscape.
- The proposed 140-metre driveway is considered excessive and, alongside the lack of natural screening, fails to meet policy requirements for sensitive site integration.
- Permitting the development would set an undesirable precedent for similar visually obtrusive projects, detracting from the character and amenities of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
Mary Manny sought planning permission for a storey-and-a-half dwelling and associated services at Battstown, Collinstown, Co. Westmeath, on a 1.7ha agricultural site designated as an Area Under Strong Urban Influence. While the applicant successfully demonstrated a local housing need, Westmeath County Council refused the application primarily on siting grounds. The inspector concluded that the house's elevated position on rising ground, the 140m long access road, and the lack of existing field b...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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