Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes an unintegrated second housing unit on-site that exceeds size limits and contradicts the temporary nature of independent living unit policies, thereby injuring residential amenities and setting a negative precedent.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The log cabin is a detached structure situated 9m from the main dwelling and exceeds the 45sqm size limit, failing to meet the integration and scale requirements for a family flat.
- The applicants are seeking permanent habitable use for a structure originally permitted as a non-habitable shed, which has already been used as a residence for 11 years, exceeding the policy-defined 7-year temporary period.
- The development represents a second housing unit that is out of character with the area's development pattern and would set a precedent for haphazard development contrary to the 'RE' zoning objective.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Wicklow County Development Plan 2016-2022 (Independent living units / 'Granny-flats' requirements)Ashford Town Plan 2016-2022 (Zoning RE - Existing residential)
Decision Document Summary
This application sought the retention of a change of use for an existing timber log building at 4 Carrig Park, Ashford, to a one-bedroom family flat. The structure was originally permitted as a non-habitable shed/play area. Wicklow County Council refused the application because the unit is not physically integrated with the main house, exceeds the maximum size threshold of 45sqm, and the applicants are seeking permanent rather than temporary use. The planner concluded that the development effect...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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