2460126
development will consist of a mixed use residential/commercial development including 2 No.detached four-bedroom dormer dwellings, 7 No.detached two bedroom single storey dwellings, 10 No.semi-detached three bedroom two storey dwellings, 4 No. terraced two bedroom two storey dwellings, block with 2 No. two bedroom apartments at first floor level and 2 No. 101 sq.m. commercial unit’s at ground floor level, a new vehicular entrance and access road, car parking and bicycle parking, landscaped open space with pedestrian link to adjoining Clog Na Léinn, connections to existing foul sewer via temporary treatment system on adjoining land, surface water drainage systems and all ancillary services
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development is considered premature due to the lack of capacity in the existing Collinstown wastewater treatment plant and the high groundwater vulnerability of the site.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The existing Collinstown wastewater treatment plant is currently overloaded and upgrades are not anticipated until after 2030, making the development premature.
- The proposed use of a temporary on-site treatment system is unacceptable given the site's classification as having 'High' groundwater vulnerability.
- The development is contrary to Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 policies CPO 10.94 and CPO 10.99, which require sufficient public infrastructure capacity and protect against increased effluent loading in vulnerable areas.