Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would require the removal of a substantial length of roadside embankment, hedgerow, and mature native trees to achieve necessary sightlines, resulting in an unacceptable impact on the ecology, visual amenity, and rural character of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The works required to achieve a safe vehicular entrance involve the removal of approximately 70 metres of existing hedgerow, trees, and stone/clay embankment, which is considered excessive.
- The loss of this mature roadside boundary would result in a significant negative impact on the visual amenities and local ecology of the rural landscape.
- The proposal directly contravenes Objective KCDP 11-27 of the Kerry County Development Plan 2022-2028, which seeks to protect and enhance broadleaf tree cover and retain existing trees in development proposals.
Cited Policies (CDP)
KCDP 5-17KCDP 5-18KCDP 5-19KCDP 5-20KCDP 5-21KCDP 5-22Objective KCDP 5-14Objective KCDP 11-77Objective KCDP 11-78Section 11.2.8Objective KCDP 11-27
Decision Document Summary
Brianna and Shane Kelly sought permission for a single-storey dwelling and garage at Ballynamaunagh, Kilcummin, located in a rural area under significant urban influence. Although the applicants successfully demonstrated a local rural housing need as the daughter of a local farmer, the site's physical characteristics presented a major obstacle. The Planning Authority determined that the extensive removal of 70m of mature roadside boundary and embankment required to provide safe traffic sightline...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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