Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development failed to demonstrate adequate legal and technical access arrangements and was deemed to have an unacceptable visual impact due to its elevated position near a hill apex.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling is located on the 56/55m contour line near the apex of a hill, failing to assimilate into the landscape and necessitating relocation to a lower contour to mitigate visual impact.
- The applicant failed to provide documentary evidence of legal entitlement to use the private access road or demonstrate that required sight lines could be achieved in accordance with Figure 12.4 of the County Development Plan.
- Technical site characterisation for wastewater treatment could not be completed due to the presence of livestock, and insufficient details were provided regarding the proposed connection to the public water mains.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Chapter 2: Core Strategy & Settlement Policy2.6: Settlement Hierarchy2.7: Settlement StrategyChapter 3: People, Places & Houses3.9 Rural Housing3.10 Rural Area TypesTable 3.1: Rural Area TypesTable 3.2: Rural Housing Need CriteriaChapter 7: Infrastructure, Transport & CommunicationSection: 7.8 WaterChapter 12: Development Management12.7 Rural House Design ConsiderationsFigure 12.4
Decision Document Summary
Keara Lennon sought permission for a single-storey dwelling, a secondary wastewater treatment system, and ancillary works at Keelty, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The site is situated in a 'Rural Area under Urban Influence' (Zone A). Although the applicant established a 'social' housing need based on local links, the Planning Authority identified critical issues regarding the site's elevated topography and the lack of proven legal access via a private road. The proposal was ultimately stalled due to t...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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