2460399
Permission for proposed residential development consisting of 2no. 3-to-4 storey apartment buildings (Blocks A&B) at Rivercourt, Rathmullan Road. The development will consist of: Block A – 11 no. (7 x 4p 2-bed and 4 x 2p 1-bed Apartments). Block B – 11 no. (7 x 4p 2-bed and 4 x 2p 1-bed Apartments). New amenity area - New pedestrian link to existing public greenway. Upgrade and replacement of existing waste management system. All associated works
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to substandard residential design (inadequate amenity space, floor areas, and storage), failure to provide a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment for a site adjacent to a flood zone, and the absence of a Natura Impact Statement to address potential impacts on protected European sites.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal fails to provide adequate private and communal amenity space or sufficient internal storage, resulting in a substandard level of residential amenity for future occupants and setting an undesirable precedent for poorly designed developments.
- The applicant failed to submit a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment despite the site's proximity to Flood Zones A and B, meaning the Planning Authority cannot be satisfied that the development would not exacerbate flooding or diminish water quality.
- In the absence of a Natura Impact Statement, the Planning Authority is precluded from granting permission as it cannot be determined that the project would not adversely affect the integrity of the River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC and SPA.