Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to traffic safety hazards arising from inadequate sightlines and insufficient junction setback, as well as the detrimental impact on visual amenity and natural heritage caused by extensive hedgerow removal in a sensitive landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed entrance is situated only 30m from a junction, failing to meet the 55m minimum safety standard and creating a traffic hazard due to inadequate sightlines.
- The proposal necessitates the extensive removal of mature roadside hedgerows, which directly contradicts County Development Plan policies regarding hedgerow preservation (Objective BD20).
- The development would be injurious to the visual and natural amenity of a 'Most Sensitive' landscape area, undermining established landscape protection objectives (Objective L02).
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 7.11.2Policy Objective BD 20Policy Objective L02Waterford City and County Development Plan 2022-2028
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Kurt Ryan, proposed the construction of a single-storey dwelling, garage, and wastewater treatment system at Russellstown, Kilmanahan, Co. Waterford. Although the applicant satisfied local housing need criteria, the Planning Authority refused permission on two main grounds. Firstly, the proposed access onto the public road was deemed a traffic hazard due to its proximity to a junction and substandard sightlines. Secondly, the project required significant removal of mature hedgerow...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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