Core Refusal Reason
The Inspector recommended overturning the Planning Authority's refusal, concluding that the proposed extension is consistent with town centre consolidation and would not seriously injure residential or visual amenities despite a technical deficiency in private open space.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development is substantively consistent with national and local policy objectives for the consolidation of built-up serviced town centre areas.
- While the remaining private open space is deficient in quantum and quality, the improvement in residential internal quality and the proximity to the seafront justifies the development.
- The potential for overlooking of adjoining properties is considered restricted and does not constitute a valid ground for refusal, subject to conditions limiting the use of the flat roof.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Fingal County Development Plan 2023-2028Zoning Objective: Town and District Centre (TC)Policy SPQHP41Section 14.10.2.3Objective DMS 87 (Fingal County Development Plan 2017-2023)Objective PM 46 (Fingal County Development Plan 2017-2023)
Decision Document Summary
The application relates to a 21sqm ground floor extension and the insertion of two gable windows at a property to the rear of No. 9 Strand Street, Skerries. The site contains a late 19th-century building in a Town Centre (TC) zoned area. Fingal County Council refused permission based on intensification of overlooking and a lack of remaining private amenity space. The Inspector found that the internal reconfiguration aimed to 'future-proof' the dwelling for retirement, providing wheelchair-access...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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