Core Refusal Reason
The site is unsuitable for an on-site wastewater treatment system due to poor drainage, a high water table, and its location over a highly vulnerable aquifer, posing a significant risk to public health and the environment.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that effluent could be safely disposed of on-site without risk to groundwater or the environment.
- Site investigations revealed poor drainage characteristics, including water in percolation test holes and mottling at shallow depths (0.4m) below ground level.
- The proposed development is located on a Regionally Important Karsified Bedrock Aquifer with a High Vulnerability Rating within an Outer Source Groundwater Protection Area, making it contrary to proper planning and sustainable development.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Kilkenny County Development Plan 2021-2027Figure 9.2 Landscape Character Assessment
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the construction of a single and 1.5-storey dwelling with a garage and private wastewater system at Churchill, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny. While the applicants demonstrated a social need to live in the rural area in compliance with the County Development Plan, the application was refused due to critical environmental constraints. Site assessments indicated poor drainage and a high water table, and the site's location over a regionally important, highly vulnerable aquifer wi...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.