Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the applicants' failure to demonstrate a qualifying local housing need, the development's adverse visual impact on an Area of High Scenic Quality, traffic safety hazards arising from inadequate sightlines, and potential risks to public health and environmental heritage.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicants failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need in accordance with Policy HOU 41, meaning the proposal would contribute to unsustainable rural sprawl in an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence'.
- The proposed dwelling would cause significant visual injury to a sensitive Area of High Scenic Quality (AHSQ) and poses an unacceptable risk to archaeological remains and the conservation objectives of the Dundalk Bay SPA and SAC.
- The development represents a traffic hazard due to the inability to achieve required sightlines on a narrow mountain road and presents a public health risk due to wastewater disposal concerns in an area of extreme groundwater vulnerability.
Cited Policies (CDP)
HOU 41NGB 37BHC 6BHC 7NGB 3Table 13.13NGB 6HOU 38HOU 45HOU 46HOU 47NGB 36HOU 40HOU 42MOV 56MOV 57ENV 39IU 16IU 17IU 18IU 19BHC 5-7NGB 50
Decision Document Summary
Darren O'Hanlon and Aine Breen sought planning permission for a single-storey dwelling, garage, and wastewater treatment system at Caraban, Ravensdale, Co. Louth. The site is located in a highly sensitive upland area designated as an Area of High Scenic Quality. Louth County Council refused the application on six comprehensive grounds, primarily citing the lack of demonstrated local housing need. Additionally, the council found the proposal would negatively impact the landscape's character, crea...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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