Core Refusal Reason
The site is unsuitable for the safe disposal of domestic effluent due to poor drainage characteristics, a high water table, and the risk of over-concentration of wastewater treatment systems in the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The low-lying nature of the site and poor drainage characteristics, evidenced by a high water table and the presence of rushes, render it unsuitable for safe on-site effluent disposal.
- The development would result in an over-concentration of individual wastewater treatment units in a confined area, which is contrary to the principles of proper planning and sustainable development.
- The proposed wastewater system fails to comply with the EPA Code of Practice Manual 2021, posing an unacceptable risk to public health, surface waters, and the Natura 2000 network.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Galway County Development Plan 2015-2021Chapter 13 - Development Management StandardsObjective RHO 2
Decision Document Summary
This application sought permission for a new dwelling house, garage, and on-site sewage treatment system at Ballynamona, Galway East, located approximately five kilometres northwest of Abbey. While the site design and road access were considered acceptable, the development was refused due to severe drainage limitations. The Planning Authority concluded that the site's high water table and poor subsoil conditions make it incapable of safely managing domestic effluent, which would lead to environm...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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