211472

extraction of rock by blasting means down to 165mOD; Processing of material using mobile plant; Landscaping and restoration of the quarry; All other ancillary facilities and works; Planning permission for a 10 year period. The application is accompanied by a Natura Impact Statement (NIS)

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The application was refused due to the absence of mandatory environmental assessments (EIAR and NIS), significant potential impacts on protected species and habitats, adverse visual impact on the landscape, and unresolved traffic safety issues.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The absence of a mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) precludes a proper assessment of significant environmental and ecological risks to the Slaney River Valley SAC and Wicklow Mountains SPA.
  • The development would create a significant visual scar on the landscape, conflicting with County Development Plan objective NH51 regarding the protection of visual amenities and landscape character.
  • The proposal constitutes a traffic hazard as it relies on road upgrades on lands outside the applicant's control, rendering the development premature pending a determination by the Road Authority.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Level 10AHA-Transitional lands/ Corridor AreaSection 9.1Section 9.2Section 9.3Section 10.3Section 10.3.9Section 10.3.10EX1EX2EX3EX4NH2NH8NH23NH49NH51

Decision Document Summary

The proposal sought a 10-year permission for rock extraction by blasting and processing at a 2.4ha site in Deerpark, Donard, Co. Wicklow. The site is a former quarry located in a rural area categorized as 'Transitional lands/Corridor Area' near the Slaney River Valley SAC. Wicklow County Council refused the application because the applicant failed to provide necessary environmental reports (EIAR and NIS) to address impacts on protected habitats and species, specifically the Peregrine Falcon. Fur...
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