Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes inappropriate backlands development that fails to integrate into the rural landscape and would result in an excessive concentration of private wastewater treatment systems, posing a risk to public health.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling is considered 'backlands' development that fails to integrate with the existing built form and would set an undesirable precedent for ad-hoc, unintegrated development in the countryside.
- The siting is non-reflective of traditional rural patterns and represents a design approach that is contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
- There is a significant concern regarding the excessive concentration of septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems in the immediate vicinity, which is deemed prejudicial to public health due to potential groundwater pollution.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.1(3)CPO 9.1(5)
Decision Document Summary
This application sought permission for a single-storey dwelling and proprietary wastewater treatment system at Raheenquill, Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath, on a 0.79ha site located to the rear of an established row of houses. The site is situated within a 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence'. While the applicant was noted to meet local housing need criteria under CPO 9.1, Westmeath County Council refused the proposal because it constitutes backlands development that fails to integrate into the...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.