2360043

retention and change of use of the following structures on site: 1. Retain the internal configurations (changes to the internal structure) to the existing shed. Permission is also sought to change the use of part of the existing shed (northwest) to an habitable accommodation (69.5sqm). 2. Permission is sought to retain the use of the existing sheds to the southeast of the site, which consist of an office (116.7sqm), a domestic storage unit (118.8sqm) and stables (37.7sqm). 3. Permission is sought to remove the existing mobile home (39sqm) to the northwest existing building from the site. 4. Permission is also sought to retain the existing entrance onto the public road and all associated site works at the above address

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The development constitutes overdevelopment of a rural site, fails to meet local housing need criteria for a residential unit, and lacks adequate wastewater treatment details, while consolidating unauthorised commercial activity.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposal represents overdevelopment of an unserviced rural site with a haphazard form that is not reflective of domestic use and would negatively impact the residential amenity and value of neighboring properties.
  • The applicant failed to demonstrate compliance with local housing need criteria (CPO 9.1) or appropriate siting and design standards (CPO 16.32) for a second residential unit in a rural area.
  • The application lacks sufficient technical details regarding wastewater treatment and would consolidate an unauthorized commercial use, posing risks to public health and proper planning.

Cited Policies (CDP)

CPO 9.1CPO 16.32CPO 16.34CPO 16.53

Decision Document Summary

The applicant sought retention and change of use for several structures at Gallstown, Rochfortbridge, including converting part of a shed to a residential unit and retaining office, storage, and stable uses. The site is located in a rural area under strong urban influence. Westmeath County Council refused the application because the development represents haphazard overdevelopment that injures neighboring amenities, fails to meet rural housing need policies, lacks evidence of a compliant wastewa...
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