Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused because it constitutes haphazard backland development lacking a shared entrance with an existing dwelling and fails to provide safe sight lines at the proposed entrance onto the public road.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development represents haphazard backland development that fails to utilize a shared entrance with an existing dwelling, contrary to the requirements of Policy DM RH 5 of the Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027.
- The proposed entrance onto the L-7176 Local Secondary Road is substandard as it cannot achieve the required 3 metre x 90 metre sight lines, creating a significant traffic hazard and endangering public safety.
- Granting permission would set an undesirable precedent for similar piecemeal and unsustainable development in a rural area designated as being under strong urban influence.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy DM RH 5Policy DM RH 1Policy DM TRANS 2Appendix 7 (Rural Design Guidance)National Policy Objective 19National Policy Objective 20Laois County Council Roads & Parking Standards 2007
Decision Document Summary
Sean McCormack & Hazel Duffy proposed the construction of a 152sqm single-storey bungalow, effluent treatment system, and new vehicular entrance on a 0.262-hectare backland site in Ullard, Portarlington, Co. Laois. The site is currently agricultural land accessed via a gated laneway. The Planning Authority refused the application on two primary grounds: first, that the backland nature of the site without a shared entrance constitutes haphazard development; and second, that the proposed access on...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.