Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused primarily because the existing structure is not a verifiable former dwelling, the works constitute the consolidation of unauthorised development, and the applicants failed to demonstrate a rural housing need in a sensitive landscape area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The existing structure is an agricultural shed rather than a habitable dwelling, meaning the proposal to extend it would consolidate and intensify unauthorised development in contravention of Policy Objective RH 7.
- The applicants failed to substantiate a rural-generated housing need as required for the GCTPS area, and the scale and design of the 152 sqm extension are considered incongruous and unsympathetic to the sensitive coastal landscape.
- The application lacks critical technical information regarding safe vehicular access sightlines and a sustainable water supply, posing risks to road safety and public health.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RH 7Policy Objective RC 2Policy Objective RH2Policy Objective RH4DM Standard 7DM Standard 4Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective AH 5Policy Objective AH 6Policy Objective LCM 2Policy Objective LCM 3DM Standard 28DM Standard 36Policy Objective WS 5
Decision Document Summary
This application sought permission for a 152 sqm extension to an existing 33 sqm stone structure, along with a new wastewater treatment system, at Coisméig Mór, Na Forbacha, Co. Galway. The site is located within a Special Landscape Sensitivity area and the Galway County Transport Planning Strategy (GCTPS) zone. Galway County Council refused the application on five grounds, noting that the existing structure was an agricultural shed rather than a dwelling, and that works already performed on-sit...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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