Core Refusal Reason
The proposal involves the replacement of a ruinous structure with a new dwelling in a rural area without demonstrating local housing need, and the existing structure is too dilapidated to qualify for restoration under vernacular heritage policies.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The subject structure is a ruin lacking essential characteristics of a dwelling (roof, windows, doors) and is not considered capable of being refurbished or restored under the Louth County Development Plan.
- The development constitutes a new one-off dwelling in Rural Policy Zone 2, but the applicant has failed to demonstrate compliance with the necessary local housing need criteria.
- Granting permission would set an undesirable precedent for similar unacceptable developments in the open countryside and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
BHC 42BHC 44HOU 49HOU 41Section 13.9.12Rural Policy Zone 2
Decision Document Summary
Michael Hoey sought permission for the restoration and extension of a former vernacular dwelling at Drumcah, Inniskeen, Co. Louth. The site is located within Rural Policy Zone 2, an area defined as being under strong urban influence. The application was refused because the existing structure is in a state of total ruin and does not meet the criteria for restoration or refurbishment as its external walls and internal structure are not substantially intact. Consequently, the proposal was assessed ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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