Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence that the existing septic tank system has the capacity to accommodate the increased wastewater load resulting from the addition of two bedrooms.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed attic conversion increases the number of bedrooms, which may equate to an increased hydraulic and organic loading on the existing conventional septic tank system.
- A site characterisation and suitability report by a qualified professional is required to confirm if the current wastewater treatment plant and percolation area are adequate for the proposed occupancy.
- The Planning Authority cannot adequately assess the proposal's impact on public health and the environment without a formal assessment conducted in line with the 2021 EPA Code of Practice.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Meath County Development Plan 2021-2027Meath Rural Design GuideSection 7.1.2 of the Meath County Development Contributions Scheme 2016-2022
Decision Document Summary
The proposal seeks permission for an attic conversion to create two additional bedrooms and install four roof windows at an existing dwelling in Hurcle, Co. Meath, located approximately 750m from the Old Mellifont Abbey. While the design was considered broadly acceptable and unlikely to impact the nearby heritage site or adjacent properties, the application was refused in its current form (pending further information). The primary ground for the decision was the lack of technical data demonstrat...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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