Core Refusal Reason
The application failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need in a Rural Policy Zone 2 area and proposed an intrusive, piecemeal development on a private laneway that would negatively impact the rural character, biodiversity, and the setting of a historic designed landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate compliance with the qualifying criteria for Rural Policy Zone 2, as they did not adequately prove that their housing needs could not be met within nearby urban settlements.
- The proposed development constitutes inappropriate piecemeal encroachment into the open rural landscape via a substandard private laneway, which would erode the rural character and set an undesirable precedent.
- The proposal would result in the loss of significant mature hedgerows and negatively impact the setting of Stephenson’s House, a designated Historic Garden and Designed Landscape.
Cited Policies (CDP)
HOU 41HOU 42HOU 47Section 13.9.4Section 13.9.6ENV 38ENV 39IU 18NBG 3Table 9.5
Decision Document Summary
Paul Prendergast and Rachel Kindlon sought permission for a single-storey detached dwelling and garage at Rathroal, Knockbridge, Co. Louth, located within Rural Policy Zone 2 (Area Under Strong Urban Influence). The site is situated at the end of a private laneway within a large agricultural field that forms part of the designed landscape of Stephenson’s House. Louth County Council refused the application on six grounds, primarily citing the lack of demonstrated local housing need, the intrusive...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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