Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would result in significant excavation and be an obtrusive feature on an elevated landscape, contravening policy regarding landscape protection and site selection.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling is located on a highly elevated site and would require significant excavation of over 3m, making it an obtrusive feature that fails to integrate into the local landscape character.
- The development contravenes Policy RHP 5 of the Mayo County Development Plan 2022-2028, as the siting and design would have an adverse impact on the character of the landscape which it is necessary to preserve.
- The proposal involves excessive earthworks and alteration of existing contours, which is contrary to the Mayo Rural Housing Design Guidelines 2008 which states that unnecessary site excavation or site filling should be avoided.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RHO1Policy RHP 5Section 1 Site Selection and House Siting of the Mayo Rural Housing Design Guidelines 2008
Decision Document Summary
Steffen Bechtold and Aoife McTigue sought permission for a detached dwelling, garage, and effluent treatment system at Graffa More, Castlebar, an area designated as being under strong urban influence. While the applicants demonstrated a housing need as returning immigrants, the application was refused because the proposed siting on an elevated part of the field necessitated excessive excavation of over 3m and would result in a visually obtrusive development. The Planning Authority concluded that...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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