22920

CONSTRUCT A COUNSELLING CENTRE, COMPRISING OF COUNSELLING ROOMS, OFFICES AND ASSOCIATED ROOMS, A SEPARATE ANCILLARY PLANT ROOM, ACCESS ROAD, AND ALL ASSOCIATED SITE SERVICES. A NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT (NIS) HAS BEING PREPARED IN RESPECT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AND ACCOMPANIES THIS APPLICATION.

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The application was refused due to insufficient ecological mitigation for the Lesser Horseshoe Bat and the site's location within a flood plain, making the development premature and inconsistent with its conservation zoning.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The Planning Authority is not satisfied that the proposed mitigation measures, particularly regarding lighting, are adequate to prevent adverse impacts on the foraging and commuting routes of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat, thereby threatening the integrity of the Killarney National Park, Macgillycuddy Reeks and Caragh River Catchment SAC.
  • The development site lies within the immediate flood plain of Lough Leane, and the proposal is considered premature pending the progression of the Killarney Flood Relief Scheme and a more detailed assessment of flood risk in the town and its environs.
  • The proposed development is located in an area zoned G5 for 'green' recreation and conservation, and the nature of the project is considered an unacceptable use that would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Section 11.5.2.1Objective KA32G5 zoning

Decision Document Summary

The proposal sought to construct a counselling centre, offices, and ancillary services on a 0.327-hectare wooded site at Reen, Ross Road, Killarney, adjacent to Killarney National Park. While the project serves a significant social purpose, it was refused by Kerry County Council because the applicant failed to prove that the development would not harm the habitat of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat, a protected species in the neighboring SAC. Additionally, the site's location within a flood plain and it...
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