D22A/0742

The Planning Authority initially refused permission on the grounds that the conversion did not constitute a 'minor modification or extension' under Section 2.6.1.3 of the Development Plan for A1-zoned lands awaiting a Local Area Plan. However, the Board Inspector recommended a grant, arguing that the restriction was unduly onerous and that the proposal aligns with residential densification policies.

• The development is acceptable in principle as it promotes the adaptation and densification of existing housing stock in a serviced suburban area in line with Policy Objective PHP19.
• The Planning Authority's refusal pending a new Local Area Plan is considered overly restrictive, as the proposal involves no increase in floor area and has no significant physical impact on the building's exterior or the surrounding character.
• A minor shortfall in the floor area of the second bedroom (10sqm vs the required 11.4sqm) is not considered a substantive reason for refusal given the provision of an additional residential unit on a large, serviced site.