Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to traffic safety concerns regarding inadequate sightlines at the proposed entrance and the negative visual impact of the dwelling on an elevated, prominent site.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed entrance would create a traffic hazard as required sightlines are unachievable due to the vertical alignment of the road and the presence of a crest near the site access.
- The dwelling's siting on an elevated and prominent location would result in a visually intrusive development that seriously injures the rural character and visual amenity of the surrounding landscape.
- The proposal constitutes undesirable haphazard development that is contrary to the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 policies regarding road safety (CPO 10.52) and sensitive site selection (CPO 16.32).
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.16CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34CPO 10.52
Decision Document Summary
Brandon Carey and Chloe Smith sought permission to construct a storey-and-a-half dwelling, garage, and effluent treatment system at Cloonagh, Ballinagore, Co. Westmeath. The 0.37-hectare site is located in a rural area designated as being under 'Strong Urban Influence'. Westmeath County Council refused the application primarily because the proposed entrance failed to meet safety standards for sightlines, creating a traffic hazard on a road with poor alignment. Furthermore, the planning authority...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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