Core Refusal Reason
The proposal lacks a demonstrated agricultural necessity for a new entrance on a small site already served by an existing access, and would result in a traffic hazard and the loss of significant natural roadside boundaries.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed entrance is considered unnecessary as the 0.4-hectare site is part of a larger field already served by an existing entrance to the north, and its approval would set an undesirable precedent for additional entrances on a narrow rural road.
- The development would necessitate the removal of a natural sod/stone roadside bank and associated mature vegetation, which is contrary to County Development Plan policies regarding the retention of distinctive rural boundary treatments.
- The applicant failed to provide adequate sightline details, and achieving the required visibility would depend on setting back boundaries on third-party lands without demonstrated consent, thereby creating a serious traffic hazard.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 12.54CPO 17.23CPO 9.6CPO 9.37CPO 9.40CPO 9.41CPO 12.34CPO 17.35Appendix 1 S2.1.9
Decision Document Summary
This application by Zoe Hilton proposed a new 15m wide agricultural entrance at Ballinacarrig Lower, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, to serve a 0.4ha land parcel. Wicklow County Council refused the application because the site is currently part of a larger field already served by an existing entrance, and no genuine need for a secondary access was established. Additionally, the proposal was found to be contrary to rural protection policies as it would destroy natural roadside boundaries and create a traf...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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