Core Refusal Reason
The applicants failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need as they already own and reside in a dwelling in the local rural area, contravening rural housing policy for areas under strong urban influence.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The subject site is located in a 'Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence' where development is restricted to individuals with a demonstrated local housing need.
- The applicants' residential requirement has already been met as they currently own and reside in a dwelling in the local rural area for which they previously received planning permission.
- The proposed development would contravene Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 policies CPO 9.1 and CPO 2.11, as well as the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2005).
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 2.11CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.15CPO 9.16CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involved the construction of a two-bedroom single-story dwelling, garage, and associated site works at Culleenagower, Moate, Co. Westmeath. The site is located in a rural area designated as being under strong urban influence. Westmeath County Council refused permission because the applicants already own and occupy a home in the local area, thus failing to meet the criteria for a local housing need. Although the reporting planner initially suggested a second refusal reason regarding ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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