Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes an inappropriate expansion of retail floorspace in an out-of-centre rural location, which would undermine the retail hierarchy and the commercial vitality of nearby settlements.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development would facilitate an expansion of retail offerings at an out-of-centre rural location on unzoned land, undermining the County's retail strategy and hierarchy.
- The proposal would negatively impact the vitality and viability of nearby settlements, particularly Ballacolla and Rathdowney, which are identified as having high vacancy levels.
- The development is contrary to specific retail policies (RTP 1 and RTP 2) and would set an undesirable precedent for similar developments in the wider rural area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RTP 1Policy Objective RTP 2Table 7.2Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027Laois County Retail Strategy 2021-2027
Decision Document Summary
Ard Services Ltd sought permission for a 16sqm ancillary off-licence within the existing Manor Stone Service Station at Tintore, Ballacolla, Co. Laois. The site is located on unzoned land in a rural area near the M8 motorway. Laois County Council refused the application because the expansion of retail services in this out-of-town location would undermine the County's retail strategy and hierarchy. Specifically, the planning authority determined that the proposal would detract from the commercial...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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