Core Refusal Reason
Failure to demonstrate that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of European Sites (Natura 2000) and incomplete technical responses regarding sightline obstructions and wastewater treatment specifications.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to submit a Natura Impact Statement (NIS), which is required because potential significant effects on European Sites within a 15km radius could not be ruled out due to a hydrological connection via an open drain.
- The response to the Request for Further Information was incomplete as it lacked a letter of consent from the electricity provider for the relocation of a pole that currently obstructs the required sightlines.
- Technical documentation for the wastewater treatment system was insufficient, specifically failing to include a revised Site Characterisation Form to reflect the necessary adjustments to the polishing filter invert levels.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RH 3Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective NHB 1Policy Objective NHB 2Policy Objective NHB 3DM Standard 50
Decision Document Summary
Pat Loftus applied for permission to construct a two-storey, four-bedroom dwelling, a domestic garage, and a wastewater treatment system at Eskerroe, Menlough, Co. Galway. The site is situated in a 'structurally weak' rural area where the principle of a new house is generally supported under Policy Objective RH 3. However, the Planning Authority refused permission primarily because the applicant did not provide a Natura Impact Statement to assess potential impacts on protected European Sites. Ad...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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