2460565
Permission for a change of use of two sections of gardens to the rear of no.s 14 & 16 Point Road, Dundalk to a commercial yard/hard standing area which will be associated with the adjoining McArdle Test Centre facility. Access to the proposed hardstanding area/commercial yard will be via the existing McArdle Test Centre facility/entrances. The proposal includes for new boundary treatments, alterations to and relocation of a previously granted attenuation system as granted under planning reference no. 2360306 (Extensions and alterations to our existing test centre premises with all associated site development works); the revised attenuation system will service the new commercial yard/hardstanding area with all associated site development works
Core Refusal Reason
The development represents an unacceptable encroachment of industrial use into residential-zoned land, causing adverse amenity impacts and failing to provide a technically sound surface water management strategy.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed change of use from residential gardens to a commercial yard contravenes the 'A1' zoning objective, which seeks to protect and enhance the amenity of existing residential communities.
- The extension of the vehicle test centre would generate unacceptable levels of noise, fumes, and commercial activity, negatively impacting the private amenity and security of neighboring residential properties.
- The applicant failed to provide an accurate surface water management plan, proposing a connection to a non-existent sewer and failing to comply with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) requirements under Policy IU 19.