23129
Permission for 1. construction of a single storey bonded warehouse equalling 1,187m2 subdivided into 2 units of 593.5m2 with a height of 8m to the eaves and 10m to the apex. 2. An extension to existing building consisting of link corridor and toilet block of 48m2. 3. Change of use of existing ground floor vegetable processing facility (1853m2) to premium branded whiskey filling, maturation and packaging facility (brand home) including whiskey maturation storage area, finished goods store, packaging store and associated offices. 4. Change of use of existing first floor (226m2) to offices, board room and welfare facilities. 5. External works to include amended entrance gates external product tanks and all the developments associated site works
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development is inappropriately located within a built-up urban area, immediately abutting a large residential estate and schools, posing an unacceptable public health and safety risk due to the storage of hazardous substances (whiskey) in close proximity to sensitive receptors.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed bonded warehouse for whiskey storage is inappropriately located within a built-up urban area with insufficient buffer zones to protect the adjacent large residential estate and nearby national schools.
- The storage of hazardous substances in close proximity to sensitive receptors poses an unacceptable public health risk and would constitute a major accident hazard contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
- The proposal is contrary to Louth County Development Plan policies ENV 27, ENV 28, and ENV 29, and fails to provide a site selection rationale that justifies locating such a facility immediately adjacent to residential zoned lands.