Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to inappropriate siting and design on a prominent, elevated site, which would result in a significant negative visual impact on the rural landscape and fails to comply with vernacular design standards.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling fails to reflect vernacular form and does not comply with the design standards set out in policy objective CPO 16.32 and the Westmeath Rural Design Guidelines.
- The siting of the dwelling on an elevated and open part of the landholding, served by an excessively long driveway, would lead to a significant reduction in the visual and environmental quality of the local landscape.
- The applicant failed to submit an Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening Report to assess potential significant effects on the Natura 2000 network, specifically the Lough Ree SAC and SPA.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 16.32Westmeath Rural Design Guidelines
Decision Document Summary
This application proposed the construction of a single-storey bungalow and detached garage at Coolaleena, Glasson, Athlone. Although the applicant was deemed to meet local housing need criteria for the area, the proposal was refused primarily because the dwelling's design and its prominent, elevated siting 190m from the public road would negatively impact the character of the rural landscape. Furthermore, the planning authority noted the availability of more suitable alternative sites within the...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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