Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a lack of alternative sites outside the Area of Special Control (Slieve Bloom Mountains) and the proposed dwelling was deemed visually obtrusive on an elevated, sensitive landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant does not comply with Policy SSP-27 of the County Development Plan as there are suitable alternative sites available to them within the family landholding that are located outside the designated Area of Special Control.
- The proposed development, by reason of its siting and design, would be out of character and visually obtrusive in a rural area designated as an Area of High Amenity, materially contravening objectives BLO-22 and BLO-25.
- Given the elevated nature of the site, the proposal is considered visually incongruous and contrary to Development Management Standard DMS-48 and the 'Designing Houses' design guide for the Offaly countryside.
Cited Policies (CDP)
SSP-27BLO-22BLO-25DMS-48BLP-38BLO-23BLO-24DMS-45DMS-46DMS-47DMS-50DMS-57
Decision Document Summary
Lisa Connolly sought planning permission for a 224.3m² dormer dwelling and detached garage at Ballywilliam, Co. Offaly, located within the Slieve Bloom Mountains Area of High Amenity. The application was refused primarily because the applicant failed to meet the 'Area of Special Control' criteria under Policy SSP-27, as the Planning Authority identified viable alternative building sites on the family landholding outside the protected area. Furthermore, the inspector concluded that the elevated n...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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