Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to provide sufficient scientific evidence in the Natura Impact Statement to demonstrate that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of the River Moy SAC and the Lough Conn and Lough Cullin SPA.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The submitted Natura Impact Statement (NIS) contains significant lacunae, including a lack of up-to-date scientific data, specialist surveys, and a robust assessment against site-specific conservation objectives for the River Moy SAC and Lough Conn and Lough Cullin SPA.
- The proposed development, including the installation of a new septic tank and necessary access visibility improvements, would result in the direct removal and potential loss of 'Old sessile oak woodland', which is a qualifying interest habitat in a deteriorating conservation status.
- Due to the proximity of designated sites and the deficiency of the methodology used in the reports, the Planning Authority cannot rule out significant adverse impacts on the environment and the integrity of the Natura 2000 network.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Mayo County Development Plan 2020-2028Mayo County Development Plan 2014-2020Mayo Rural Housing Design Guideline 2008
Decision Document Summary
Martin Gallagher sought permission to relocate a septic tank system to higher ground and renovate an existing dwelling house at Carrickbarrett, Pontoon, Co. Mayo. The site is situated in a highly sensitive ecological area within the River Moy SAC and adjacent to the Lough Conn and Lough Cullin SPA, featuring protected 'Old sessile oak woodland'. The application was refused primarily because the supporting environmental reports were deemed seriously deficient, failing to provide the necessary sci...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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