Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission because the development is modest in scale, compatible with the design of the existing house, and does not adversely impact the residential amenities, rural character, or the high scenic amenity designation of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The extensions and attic conversion (totaling approx. 130 sqm) are acceptable in principle as they are well-integrated into the existing structure and do not negatively affect the surrounding visual or residential landscape.
- Concerns regarding site boundaries and the crossing of a 5-inch watermain were dismissed as the development is sufficiently set back from the infrastructure and the applicant demonstrated sufficient legal interest for the planning application.
- The proposal does not increase the loading on the existing septic tank system since no additional bedrooms were created, and the project is of a scale that does not require mandatory EIA or AA screening.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy RH-P-5Policy RH-P-6Policy RH-P-7Policy RH-P-9Policy L-P-2Policy TS-P-1Policy WW-P-3Objective WW-O-1Map 6.3.1Map 11.1Chapter 16
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks retention permission for side and rear extensions and an attic conversion at a rural dwelling in Kinnea, Co. Donegal. The site is located within a 'Structurally Weak' rural area and a 'High Scenic Amenity' landscape. A third-party appellant, a nearby landowner and farmer, contested the grant on grounds of inaccurate site boundaries, potential impacts on his working farm, and potential damage to a local watermain. The Inspector found the development to be modest and compatib...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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