Core Refusal Reason
The proposal failed to demonstrate a bona-fide need for a granny flat and was deemed to be of an excessive scale and poor design that would be visually incongruous and non-integrated with the host dwelling.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide documentary evidence of a bona-fide need for the unit and the design lacks a physical connection that allows for easy reintegration into the main dwelling upon cessation of use.
- The scale of the proposed extension (124sqm) is considered excessive and subordinate to the host structure (140sqm), effectively functioning as a standalone residential unit rather than a dependent flat.
- The siting of the extension, which steps forward of the host structure by 6 meters, is considered visually inappropriate and detrimental to the character of the existing dwelling and the visual amenity of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 16.29CPO 16.27
Decision Document Summary
The applicants sought permission for a 124sqm two-bedroom self-contained granny flat extension to an existing 140sqm single-storey dwelling at Bonavalley, Athlone. Westmeath County Council refused the application primarily because the proposal failed to justify the bona-fide need for such a unit as required by the County Development Plan. Additionally, the planning authority determined that the extension's excessive scale and prominent forward-stepping design were visually incongruous, failed to...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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