Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to unsuitable site conditions for wastewater treatment, potential adverse impacts on nearby European protected sites (Natura 2000), and the negative visual impact of the suburban-style design on a highly sensitive 'Iconic' landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The Planning Authority is not satisfied that the site can safely dispose of domestic effluent due to observed waterlogging and high water table levels, posing a risk to public health and surface water quality.
- The proposed development could have significant adverse effects on the integrity of nearby Natura 2000 sites, such as Lough Corrib SAC and SPA, given the site's poor drainage characteristics and proximity to these protected areas.
- The suburban design and scale of the dwelling would fail to assimilate into the sensitive 'Iconic' Class 4 landscape, resulting in a visually obtrusive feature that detracts from the rural character and visual amenity of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective WW6DM Standard 38Policy Objective NHB1Policy Objective NHB 2DM Standard 50Policy Objective RH4DM Standard 46Policy Objective LCM 1Policy Objective LCM 2DM Standard 8Policy Objective RH5Policy Objective RH9DM Standard 7DM Standard 9DM Standard 11DM Standard 28DM Standard 29DM Standard 37DM Standard 47DM Standard 63
Decision Document Summary
John Fox sought permission to construct a 181sqm dwelling and 60sqm garage on a greenfield site at Ardaun West, near Clonbur, located within a Gaeltacht area and a Class 4 'Iconic' landscape. The proposal was refused by Galway County Council primarily because the site's poor drainage and high water table made it unsuitable for safe wastewater treatment, which also threatened the environmental integrity of nearby European protected sites. Additionally, the planning authority determined that the s...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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