Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to its negative visual impact on a sensitive coastal landscape, potential adverse effects on the integrity of the Dundalk Bay SPA and SAC, and the failure to provide a required Coastal Erosion Assessment Report.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The structure is visually prominent and alien to the unspoilt coastal landscape, conflicting with policies intended to protect the special character and visual amenity of the shoreline.
- The planning authority is not satisfied that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of the Dundalk Bay SPA and SAC, specifically regarding disturbance to protected bird species and the impact of coastal erosion.
- The application lacks a Coastal Erosion Assessment Report, which is a policy requirement for developments within 100m of the coastline to ensure long-term stability and prevent negative impacts on coastal dynamics.
Cited Policies (CDP)
ENV 56ENV 50HOU 34NGB 6Rural Policy Zone 2
Decision Document Summary
This application sought retention permission for an amenity deck structure, below-deck storage, and beach access steps at Seabank, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth. The site is located in a sensitive coastal area immediately adjacent to the Dundalk Bay SPA and SAC. Louth County Council refused the proposal because the structure is visually intrusive, lacks a mandatory Coastal Erosion Assessment, and poses an unacceptable risk of disturbance to protected species and habitats within a designated Europe...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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