Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the applicant's failure to demonstrate a local housing need, the inappropriate visual impact of the design on a prominent site, and a lack of evidence that a valid Site Suitability Assessment for wastewater treatment was conducted.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of a local housing need to justify a dwelling in an area under 'Strong Urban Influence,' as required by Policy CPO 9.1.
- The proposed dwelling's siting on an open and elevated site would result in a significant reduction in the visual quality of the local landscape and fail to integrate with the rural surroundings, contrary to Policy CPO 16.32.
- The Planning Authority was not satisfied that a Site Suitability Assessment was actually performed on-site, posing a potential risk to public health and groundwater quality, which contravenes Policy CPO 16.33.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 16.32CPO 16.33Westmeath Rural Design GuidelinesSustainable Rural Housing Guidelines 2005
Decision Document Summary
David Connaughton applied for planning permission to construct a bungalow, detached garage, and onsite sewerage system at Coolaleena, Glasson, Co. Westmeath. The site is located in a rural area categorized as being under 'Strong Urban Influence' near Lough Ree. Westmeath County Council refused the application because the applicant did not demonstrate a genuine local housing need, the proposed house was deemed to have an unacceptable visual impact on a prominent landscape, and the District Engine...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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