241
THE PARTIAL DEMOLITION TO THE REAR OF EXISTING 2 STOREY BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION OF NEW 2 STOREY EXTENSION TO THE REAR AND 2 NO. DORMER WINDOWS TO THE REVISED FRONT ELEVATION, RESET FLOOR LEVELS TO ALLOW FOR USE AS SHORT STAY ACCOMMODATION CONSISTING OF 3 FAMILY ROOMS AT FIRST FLOOR LEVEL AND COMMUNAL AND ADMINISTRATION SPACE TO GROUND FLOOR LEVEL ALONG WITH COMMUNAL YARD AREA TO REAR. ALL SERVING AS AN EXTENSION TO, AND WITHIN THE CURTILAGE OF, THE CONVERTED PREMISES HUGH LYNCH'S PUBLIC HOUSE (A PROTECTED STRUCTURE RPS NO. 23-386). ASSOCIATED GROUNDWORKS, LANDSCAPING, DRAINAGE, ENGINEERING, AND ANCILLARY WORKS NECESSARY TO FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT TO BE INCLUDED
Core Refusal Reason
The loss of potential long-term residential stock within a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) and the contravention of County Development Plan policies aimed at protecting town centre residential units.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development is located within a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) where national and local policy prioritizes the retention of residential properties for the long-term housing market.
- The proposal directly contravenes Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027 policies HP-03 and HP-04, which seek to encourage residential use of upper floors and discourage conversion to non-residential uses.
- Granting permission would result in the loss of long-term residential stock and set an undesirable precedent that conflicts with national housing policy and the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.