Core Refusal Reason
Failure to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need (Objective HD23) for a dwelling in a highly sensitive landscape designated as a Mountain and Lakeshore Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate a definable social or economic need to reside in the open countryside under Objective HD23, as his primary income is derived from employment as a publican rather than a substantially rural-based occupation.
- The proposed development is located within a designated Mountain and Lakeshore Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), where the proliferation of non-essential housing is considered to erode the landscape value and detract from scenic amenities.
- The Planning Authority noted significant issues regarding the non-compliance of a previous family dwelling (PRR 04/1561) which could potentially meet the applicant's needs, and concluded that granting further permission would undermine the County's settlement strategy.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 4.4Objective HD23Objective HD1Objective HD3Objective HD24NH49NH50NH52
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission for a 300sqm two-storey detached dwelling and effluent treatment system at Grange North, Blackditch, Newcastle, Co. Wicklow, located within a Mountain and Lakeshore Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Wicklow County Council refused the application on the grounds that the applicant did not satisfy the rural housing need criteria of Objective HD23, noting that his primary employment is as a publican. Furthermore, the planner highlighted a history of non-compliance r...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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