Core Planning Reasoning
The applicant failed to demonstrate a demonstrable economic or social need for a house in an 'Area of Strong Urban Influence' as required by the housing need criteria in Objective HO O20 of the Limerick Development Plan 2022-2028.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant did not provide documentation to indicate compliance with the rural housing criteria for an area under strong urban influence, noting her current address is approximately 17km away from the subject site.
- In the absence of a locally based need, the proposed development would contribute to the encroachment of random rural development and militate against the preservation of the rural environment.
- The Planning Authority acted correctly in assessing the application against the 2022-2028 Development Plan, as it was the plan in force at the time of the decision, despite the application being lodged under a previous plan.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective HO O20Section 4.4Map 4.1Limerick Development Plan 2022-2028
Decision Document Summary
This report pertains to a first-party appeal against Limerick City and County Council's decision to refuse permission for a four-bedroom single-storey dwelling, garage, and treatment plant at Morenane, Askeaton. The site is a 0.29ha agricultural field located in a rural area categorized as being under 'strong urban influence.' While the applicant argued that the previous development plan (where the site was in a 'structurally weak area') should apply, the Inspector confirmed that the current 202...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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