2460320
for 1. The removal of an existing two storey side extension and external fire escape stairs and replacing it with a three-storey enclosed stairwell to the side of the existing four-bedroom, three storey dwelling, with 3 proposed storage sheds attached to the rear of the proposed extension. 2. Permission for the change of use of the three-storey dwelling to three individual single bed apartments and all associated site works at Wesley House, William Street, Kilkenny R95 PD88. This Property is adjacent to the Methodist Church a Protected Structure (RPS ref B207)
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would negatively impact the architectural integrity and character of a building within the curtilage of a Protected Structure through the removal of original features and the lack of adequate heritage and archaeological assessments.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The wholesale removal of the original internal staircase and the replacement of early timber windows are considered inappropriate interventions that would damage the building's architectural, historical, and social significance.
- The proposal fails to acknowledge the building's status within the curtilage of the Methodist Church (a Protected Structure), and the absence of a comprehensive Architectural Heritage Impact Assessment is a fundamental omission.
- The development's location within the historic city centre and its proximity to the city wall, a national monument, necessitates a comprehensive archaeological impact assessment which was not provided.