Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the applicant's failure to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need, the significant negative visual impact on a designated 'Protected View' area, and an unacceptable off-site water supply arrangement.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine rural-generated housing need for a permanent residence in this Structurally Weak Area, particularly as he already owns a dwelling within 9km of the subject site.
- The proposed development, by virtue of its elevated siting and the required removal of established boundary features, would be visually obtrusive and detrimental to the character of a designated 'Protected View' (Hill of Mael and Mullaghmeen).
- The proposed reliance on an existing bored well located outside the subject site boundary is considered unsustainable and prejudicial to public health.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.3CPO 9.8CPO 9.10CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.16CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 12.13CPO 13.81CPO 13.82CPO 13.83CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
Peter Fagan sought permission for a single-storey dwelling and garage at Littlewood, Ballymanus, Co. Westmeath, a site located within a 'Structurally Weak Area' and a designated 'Protected View' corridor. Westmeath County Council refused the application on three main grounds: the applicant's lack of demonstrated rural housing need given his existing property ownership nearby; the unacceptable visual impact of an elevated house on a scenic landscape; and technical concerns regarding the proposed ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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