Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused due to the excessive removal of roadside hedgerow required for sightlines, which would negatively impact the rural character and visual amenity, and the failure to provide sufficient information to rule out significant effects on the Stabannon-Braganstown SPA.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The required removal of extensive roadside hedgerow to achieve necessary sightlines would result in an adverse impact on the visual amenities and erode the rural character of the area, contrary to policies HOU 42 and HOU 47.
- The proposed site layout, featuring a long and sweeping driveway, is contrary to Section 13.9.14 of the Development Plan which states such driveways should be avoided.
- In the absence of an Appropriate Assessment Screening report, the Planning Authority cannot be satisfied that the development would not have a significant effect on the Stabannon-Braganstown SPA, particularly regarding potential foraging habitat for the Greylag Goose.
Cited Policies (CDP)
NGB 6HOU 41Section 3.17.4HOU 46HOU 47HOU 42Section 13.9.4Section 13.9.14Section 13.9.15Section 13.9.16ENV 39IU 16IU 17IU 18IU 19IU 26
Decision Document Summary
Orlagh Byrne sought permission for a 250sqm dwellinghouse, waste water treatment system, and associated site works at Pollbrock, Stabannon, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth. The site is located within Rural Policy Zone 2, an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence.' While the applicant met the local housing need criteria, the application was refused because the necessary sightline visibility required the removal of a significant stretch of roadside hedgerow, which would damage the rural character of the l...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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