211062
development in order to improve the quality of this land for agricultural purposes. The proposed development comprises the importation of 47,000 tonnes of soil and stones, to be spread on the site in three phases and over a period of between three and five years, the changing of the existing land levels on the subject site as part of this process, the creation of a temporary haul road linking the driveway (which is to be built under entrance arrangements which have already been authorised under planning permission Reg. 21/203) with the works area (including a truck turning facility), along with the installation of a wheel-wash and a portable toilet, with chemical treatment of effluent, for the duration of these site operations
Core Refusal Reason
The development would negatively impact a designated High Amenity area near the Grand Canal and Protected Structures, while the proposed HGV traffic is unsuitable for the narrow local road network and Digby Bridge.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal would materially contravene landscape protection policies (LA2, WC3, WV1, WV2) by eroding the natural rural character and visual integrity of the Grand Canal corridor and its associated protected structures.
- The intensity of the development, involving 2,475 HGV trips over a 3-5 year period, would generate unsustainable noise and general disturbance, seriously injuring the amenities of the area.
- The proposed haul route via the L2004 local road and Digby Bridge is structurally inadequate for heavy vehicle traffic, creating a significant traffic hazard and safety risk for vulnerable road users.