Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would be visually obtrusive and out of character within a designated Area of High Amenity due to its elevated siting and the significant removal of mature roadside hedgerow.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The siting and design of the dwelling on an elevated site within the Slieve Bloom Mountains Area of High Amenity would be visually obtrusive and contravene objective BLO-22 of the County Development Plan.
- The proposal is considered visually incongruous with the rural character of the area and fails to comply with Development Management Standard DMS-48 and the Offaly County Design Guide.
- The removal of approximately 75m of mature roadside boundary to achieve sightlines would further exacerbate the visual impact and contravene standards regarding landscaping and boundary treatment (DMS-50).
Cited Policies (CDP)
SSP-27BLP-35BLP-36BLP-37BLO-22DMS-48DMS-50
Decision Document Summary
The application proposed the construction of a two-storey dwelling, garage, and septic tank system at Stonestown, Cloghan, Co. Offaly. The site is located within a 'Stronger Rural Area' and a designated Area of High Amenity (Slieve Bloom Mountains) characterized by high landscape sensitivity and elevated topography. Offaly County Council refused permission because the dwelling would be visually prominent and out of character with the sensitive landscape. Additionally, the required removal of 75m...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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