Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to its visual impact on a sensitive landscape (Area of High Scenic Quality) and the failure to provide sufficient information to rule out significant adverse effects on the Dundalk Bay Special Protection Area (SPA).
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed site is located in an Area of High Scenic Quality (AHSQ 5) and lacks adequate natural boundaries, meaning the development would be visually prominent and represent an intrusive encroachment into the open rural landscape.
- The development would militate against the preservation of the rural environment and set an undesirable precedent for similar ad-hoc development in a sensitive area under strong urban influence.
- The planning authority could not be satisfied that the development would not have a significant effect on the Dundalk Bay SPA, particularly regarding light-bellied brent geese, due to a lack of information in the Appropriate Assessment screening.
Cited Policies (CDP)
NGB 6HOU 41HOU 42HOU 45HOU 46HOU 47Section 13.9.4NGB 23NGB 37
Decision Document Summary
Sarah McMahon sought permission for a single-storey dwelling, garage, and wastewater treatment system at Salterstown, Dunleer, Co. Louth, within Rural Policy Zone 1 and an Area of High Scenic Quality. While the applicant demonstrated a rural housing need, the proposal was refused because the site lacks sufficient screening, leading to a visually intrusive development that would erode the rural character of the landscape. Additionally, the application failed to provide enough information to ensur...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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