Core Planning Reasoning
The development was refused due to its visually prominent siting on a sensitive mountain slope within an area of High Scenic Amenity, combined with a failure to prove the site's technical suitability for wastewater treatment and drainage.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling would be unduly conspicuous within a landscape of High Scenic Amenity, failing to integrate with the mountainous terrain and establishing an adverse precedent for large houses on the upper side of the local road.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the proposed wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter are compatible with the site's steep topography and existing land drainage network.
- While the applicants established a 'bona-fide' rural housing need in a structurally weak area, these personal circumstances do not outweigh the negative environmental and visual impacts of the development.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Donegal County Development Plan 2018 – 2024Policy RH-P-4Policy RH-P-1Policy RH-P-2Policy NH-P-7Appendix 4 (Location Siting and Design Guide)Policy T-P-15
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the construction of a two-storey, four-bedroom house and a detached garage/studio on a 0.61-hectare sloped site at Meenderrygamp, Gweedore. The site is situated in a prominent 'High Scenic Amenity' area on the lower slopes of Cronalaght mountain. Although Donegal County Council initially granted permission, the decision was appealed by a third party raising concerns about grazing rights (deemed a civil matter) and environmental impact. The Inspector's assessment concluded t...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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