Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended a grant of permission because the applicant demonstrated a genuine local housing need in a 'Stronger Rural Area', and the proposed contemporary longhouse design was considered to integrate well into the High Scenic Amenity landscape without causing significant injury to the residential amenities of the adjacent property.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant has demonstrated a 'vital link' to the area through long-standing family ties, satisfying the housing need criteria for a 'Stronger Rural Area' under Policy RH-P-3 and National Policy Objective 19.
- The contemporary 'Irish longhouse' design is appropriate for the 'High Scenic Amenity' designation, offering a lower-profile and smaller-scale alternative to a previously permitted dwelling on the site.
- Residential amenity concerns regarding overlooking and landscape integration are successfully mitigated by the staggered building line and specific conditions requiring frosted glazing and a comprehensive landscaping scheme.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy RH-P-1Policy RH-P-2Policy RH-P-3Policy RH-P-9Policy NH-P-7Policy NH-P-1Policy NH-P-17Policy T-P15Map 6.2.1 'Rural Area Types'Appendix 4: Building a House in Rural DonegalNPO 19 (National Planning Framework)
Decision Document Summary
This Inspector's Report concerns a third-party appeal against the grant of permission for a single-storey house and detached garage at Aughnish, Ramelton, Co. Donegal. The site is located within a 'Stronger Rural Area' and an area of 'High Scenic Amenity' overlooking Lough Swilly. The applicant, Alfie Mannion, proposed a contemporary 194sqm 'longhouse' design to replace a previously permitted but larger two-storey dwelling on the site. Appellants Suzanne and Ian Ward raised concerns regarding th...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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