22107

Permission for farmstead development consisting of the following: a single-storey/partially two-storey private dwelling house, detached domestic garage, agricultural shed, stables, wastewater treatment system, upgrade to existing farm entrance, connection to services & all associated site work

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The application was refused due to the failure to demonstrate a genuine local rural housing need, the creation of unsustainable ribbon development, and the negative impact on the visual and environmental quality of the rural landscape.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The applicants failed to demonstrate compliance with the local housing need criteria for an area under strong urban influence as set out in CPO 9.1 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027.
  • The proposed development would exacerbate ribbon development along the L-57131, leading to a piecemeal and unsustainable pattern of development that undermines the rural character of the area.
  • The siting, design, and scale of the proposed dwelling and agricultural structures would result in a significant adverse impact on the visual and environmental quality of the landscape, contrary to rural design guidelines.

Cited Policies (CDP)

CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.15CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32

Decision Document Summary

Shane and Charlotte Bell sought permission for a farmstead development, including a dwelling, garage, agricultural shed, and stables, at Marlinstown, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. The site is located in a rural area classified as being under 'Strong Urban Influence'. Westmeath County Council refused the application because the applicants did not establish a functional local need for a house at this location, the project would contribute to excessive ribbon development, and the overall design and lay...
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