Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need for a rural site given her existing home ownership in the nearby settlement, and the proposed development on an elevated, highly sensitive site would negatively impact the landscape character and visual amenities of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant has not demonstrated a functional economic or social need to reside in this specific rural area, particularly as she already owns a residence within the Ardmore Settlement Boundary which is closer to her birthplace than the subject site.
- The proposed development would result in a haphazard and unsustainable form of development in an unserviced rural area, contributing to the encroachment of random rural development and undermining the settlement strategy set out in the Development Plan.
- Due to the site's elevated and exposed hilltop position within a 'High Sensitive' scenic classification, the Planning Authority is not satisfied that the dwelling would not break the skyline and cause detrimental impact to the landscape character and visual amenities.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 7.11.2Policy Objective H 28Objective L 02Objective C & M 05National Policy Objective 19Volume 2 – Development Management Standards
Decision Document Summary
Margaret Meehan sought permission for a single-storey dwelling, garage, and wastewater system at Ardocheasty, Ardmore, Co. Waterford. The site is located in an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence' and within a 'High Sensitive' scenic landscape. The Planning Authority determined that the applicant failed to meet the rural housing need criteria because she already owns a home in the nearby Ardmore village. Furthermore, the elevated nature of the site raised significant concerns regarding visual imp...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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