24103
Permission for development within the curtilage of Protected Structure, Nucella Lodge, Knocknagoran - Ref. No. LHS005-068 & NIAH Ref. 13833012, for the demolition of existing retail unit and the construction of a new cafe and associated signage with ancillary storage at first floor level and all ancillary and associated site works including clearance works, car parking, cycle parking, bin storage, hard and soft landscaping and boundary treatment works *Significant Further Information Received on 08/05/2025 - revised internal layout, elevational changes and revised site layout to include additional parking*
Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the failure to demonstrate a clear business rationale for the scale of the development, non-compliance with traffic safety standards regarding sightlines (DMURS), and insufficient technical details regarding parking and wastewater infrastructure.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide a sufficient business plan or rationale to justify the scale of the proposed building, specifically the large kitchen and first-floor storage areas relative to the seating capacity.
- The proposed entrance fails to meet DMURS standards for sightlines (2.4m x 49m), posing a potential traffic safety hazard on the R173 that requires a revised layout or alternative proposal.
- Insufficient information was submitted regarding operational hours, wastewater treatment capacity from Uisce Éireann, and the design/provision of adequate car and bicycle parking facilities.