22537
the development will consist of; (1) the restoration of lands for the purposes of agricultural gain through importing and depositing of inert material comprising natural minerals of clay, silt, sand, gravel or stone and (2) all ancillary site development works. Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application. Significant further information/revised plans submitted on this application
Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is considered acceptable as it facilitates the restoration of agricultural lands, is compatible with the 'RA' zoning objective of the Meath County Development Plan, and will not negatively impact traffic safety, residential amenity, or the integrity of nearby European sites if managed by condition.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The infilling of land with inert soil is a compatible activity within the RA zoning objective, serving to improve agricultural productivity by re-profiling undulating and hollow areas.
- The revised site access on Windmill Road provides required 160m sightlines and can safely accommodate the projected 8-10 HGV movements per day without significantly impacting the local road network capacity.
- Appropriate Assessment concludes that provided the mitigation measures in the NIS are implemented—specifically the 5m riparian buffer and silt management—there will be no adverse effect on the River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC/SPA.