Core Refusal Reason
The Inspector recommended granting permission, concluding that the proposal is a sustainable re-use of existing housing stock that meets a genuine family housing need without causing traffic intensification or negative visual impact, outweighing the Planning Authority's concerns regarding strict adherence to the Rural Settlement Strategy for new builds.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposal represents a sustainable form of development by encouraging the re-use and adaptation of existing rural residential building stock in preference to new builds.
- The development provides a viable option for meeting the housing needs of the applicant's daughter within an existing structure, effectively facilitating 'right-sizing' for the family.
- The subdivision will not result in traffic intensification or adverse environmental impacts, as the building already exists and wastewater treatment systems will be upgraded to modern standards.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective SPQHO81Policy SPQHP45Policy SPQHP46Policy SPQHP48Objective SPQHO52Objective SPQHO71Objective SPQHO72Section 3.5.13.2Section 3.5.15Section 10.5.2.5Section 14.12.3
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks permission for the subdivision of an existing house, 'Meadowfield', and its 'granny flat' annex, 'Nexdor', into two independent semi-detached dwellings at a site in Milverton, Skerries. Fingal County Council originally refused permission, citing a failure to demonstrate compliance with the Rural Settlement Strategy (Objective RF39/SPQHO81). The Inspector, however, argues that the proposal is exceptional because the building already exists and is occupied by family. The site...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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