Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused due to its visually obtrusive siting on an elevated landscape, failure to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need, and significant deficiencies regarding environmental screening, flood risk, and traffic safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed dwelling and its 120m driveway would be visually obtrusive and haphazard on an elevated, exposed site, resulting in unnecessary scarring of the landscape and contravening established character.
- The applicant failed to adequately demonstrate a specific social or economic need to reside in this 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence' as required by Objective RHO 1.
- The application lacked essential technical documentation, specifically a Stage 1/2 Appropriate Assessment for the River Moy SAC, a flood risk assessment for the access lane, and proof of adequate traffic visibility.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RHO 1Policy RHP 5Objective RHO 5Section 2.2 of Volume 2Section 7.6 of Volume 2Objective INO 19
Decision Document Summary
Jacqueline Bourke sought permission for a single-storey dwelling, septic tank, and upgraded access road at Drumdaff, Turlough, Castlebar. The site is located in a 'Rural Area under Strong Urban Influence' and is characterized by an elevated, prominent position. Mayo County Council refused the application on six grounds, primarily focusing on the visual impact of the house and 120m driveway on the landscape, the lack of proven rural housing need, insufficient environmental screening for the nearb...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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