Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to demonstrate a genuine local housing need in an area under strong urban influence, and the proposed dwelling would be visually prominent and detrimental to the rural landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of a genuine local housing need as required for an 'Area Under Strong Urban Influence' under Policy CPO 9.1 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027.
- The proposed development would consolidate a pattern of unsustainable development in a rural area and set an undesirable precedent for further such housing where services are not proposed.
- Due to the open and exposed nature of the site, the proposed dwelling would be visually prominent, resulting in undue scarring of the landscape and a detrimental impact on the character of the countryside.
Cited Policies (CDP)
CPO 9.1CPO 9.2CPO 9.8CPO 9.13CPO 9.14CPO 9.17CPO 9.18CPO 9.19CPO 9.20CPO 16.32CPO 16.33CPO 16.34
Decision Document Summary
Lynda Lennon sought permission to construct a single-storey dwelling and treatment system at Gortmore, Drumraney, Co. Westmeath. The site is located in a rural area designated as being under 'Strong Urban Influence'. Westmeath County Council refused the application because the applicant did not demonstrate a functional or social need to reside in this specific rural area, and the proposed design was deemed to be visually obtrusive and harmful to the local landscape character....SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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