Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to its significant adverse visual impact on protected landscapes (AONB and AHSQ) and the creation of a traffic hazard on an inadequate private access laneway.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The visual prominence, bright color, and inappropriate illumination of the cross detract from the character of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Area of High Scenic Quality, particularly when viewed from the R174 Scenic Route.
- The development endangers public safety by attracting additional traffic to an un-surfaced private laneway (Beck's Lane) that is structurally inadequate and lacks the necessary width and alignment to accommodate increased visitor numbers.
- The proposal represents an unnecessary protrusion of development into the open countryside and a piecemeal form of backland development that would set an undesirable precedent for similar inappropriate development in the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
NGB 6NGB 36NGB 37NGB 40MOV 56MOV 57ENV 39BHC 5-7BH 21-22BH 38-41NGB 50NGB 14NGB 15Section 13.9.6Section 13.9.7
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought retention permission for a 7m high steel cross, a grotto, and site improvements at an existing Mass Rock site in Rockmarshall, Jenkinstown, Co. Louth. The site is located within highly sensitive landscape designations, including an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and an Area of High Scenic Quality (AHSQ). Louth County Council refused the application because the visual impact of the cross and its illumination were deemed contrary to heritage and scenic protection po...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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