Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was deemed inappropriate due to its prominent siting at the highest point of the site, an excessive 81m roadside frontage, and the unacceptable removal of mature roadside hedgerows, which would negatively impact the rural character and visual amenity of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling is sited at the highest point of the site with a 31m setback, making it overly prominent and failing to integrate with the existing topography or the established pattern of development to the west.
- The expansive 81m site frontage and the proposed removal of a significant stretch of mature roadside hedgerow are contrary to policies protecting rural character and biodiversity.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that safe access with required visibility splays could be achieved without the excessive removal of existing roadside boundaries, which is discouraged under the County Development Plan.
Cited Policies (CDP)
HOU 41HOU 42HOU 46HOU 47Section 13.9Section 13.9.14Section 13.9.15Section 13.16.17Table 13.13ENV 39IU 18IU 26
Decision Document Summary
Conor Mohan and Ellen Holmes Kelly applied for permission to construct a single-storey dwelling, domestic garage, and wastewater treatment system at Aclint, Edmonstown, Ardee, Co. Louth. The site is situated within Rural Policy Zone 2, an area under strong urban influence. Although the applicants established a local rural housing need, the planning authority raised significant concerns regarding the development's impact on the rural landscape. Specifically, the dwelling's prominent elevated posi...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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