Core Refusal Reason
The proposed change of use from retail to office at ground floor level within the Dundalk Core Shopping Area is contrary to Development Plan policies (EE 68 and EE 69) which seek to protect the retail core and discourage non-retail uses at ground floor level without sufficient justification.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The site is located within the Dundalk Core Shopping Area where policies EE 68 and EE 69 of the Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 seek to protect the retail core by discouraging non-retail uses at ground floor level.
- The applicant failed to provide a clear rationale or justification to demonstrate how the proposed office use would be complementary to the existing retail environment or why the change of use is necessary.
- Permitting the change of use would set an undesirable precedent that undermines the vitality and viability of the primary retail area, contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the town centre.
Cited Policies (CDP)
EE 64EE 65EE 66EE 68EE 69EE 76Section 13.8.34Louth Retail Strategy Appendix 4
Decision Document Summary
Gerard O'Connell sought permission for the change of use of a vacant ground floor retail unit to office use at 9 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk. The site is situated within the Dundalk Core Shopping Area and is zoned B1 'Town or Village Centre'. Louth County Council refused the application primarily because the proposal conflicts with Development Plan policies EE 68 and EE 69, which prioritize retail uses at ground floor level to maintain town centre vitality. The planner concluded that in the abse...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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