Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused due to non-compliance with regional road access policies, significant visual impact resulting from the proposed site layout, and material contravention of the 'Sporting Recreational' land use zoning.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed new vehicular access onto the R156 regional road is contrary to policy objective CPO 9.16 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027, particularly as more suitable alternative sites may exist within the family landholding.
- The siting of the dwelling and the requirement for an internal access road exceeding 200 metres in length would be visually obtrusive, detracting from the rural character and visual amenities of the area.
- The development would materially contravene the 'Sporting Recreational' zoning objective for the lands, which seeks to protect and improve provision for sporting and recreational facilities.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.16Sporting Recreational zoning objective
Decision Document Summary
The application proposed the construction of a two-storey detached dwelling, garage, and proprietary wastewater treatment system at Rathwire, Killucan, Co. Westmeath. Westmeath County Council refused permission on two main grounds: firstly, that the proposed access onto a regional road and the excessive length of the internal driveway would be contrary to transport policies and harmful to the visual amenity of the rural location; and secondly, that the development is located on lands specificall...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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