Core Refusal Reason
The proposal to hard surface the entire front garden for off-street parking lacks adequate justification, negatively impacts the character of the area, sets an undesirable precedent, and increases surface water runoff.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development lacks adequate justification for off-street parking, particularly given the availability of existing on-street facilities and parking to the rear of the dwelling.
- The removal of the front boundary wall and garden negatively impacts neighbouring amenity and the established character of the area, setting a poor precedent for similar future developments.
- The hard surfacing of the entire front garden results in excessive surface water runoff, which is contrary to the principles of proper planning and sustainable development.
Cited Policies (CDP)
County Development Plan 2022-2028Arklow and Environs Local Area Plan 2018 - 2024Zoning RE Existing Residential8.5 - Built Heritage Objectives17.4 - Natural Heritage & Biodiversity ObjectivesAppendix 1 - Development and Design StandardsAppendix 2 - Single Rural Houses Design GuidelinesAppendix 7 - Appropriate Assessment
Decision Document Summary
The application sought the retention of a tarmacadam surface in the front garden of 13 Liam Mellows Avenue, Arklow, to facilitate off-street parking and the lowering of the adjoining public footpath. The site is a semi-detached dwelling in a residential area. Wicklow County Council refused the application on the grounds that the loss of the front garden and boundary wall harms the visual character of the streetscape and sets a negative precedent. Additionally, the council found a lack of justifi...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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