Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to the failure to demonstrate a genuine rural housing need, unsuitable site conditions for wastewater treatment, potential adverse impacts on a bordering Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and negative visual impact on a highly sensitive landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of a genuine rural housing need or local linkage to the area, contravening Policy Objective RH 4 and DM Standard 7 of the County Development Plan.
- Due to poor drainage, peaty substrates, and a high water table, the site is unsuitable for the safe disposal of domestic effluent, posing an unacceptable risk to public health and the integrity of the adjacent Twelve Bens/Garraun Complex SAC.
- The proposed dwelling would be a visually obtrusive feature in a Class 4 landscape of 'Iconic' sensitivity, failing to integrate into the mountainous setting and detracting from the visual amenity of the area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy Objective RH 4DM Standard 7Objective WW 6DM Standard 38Policy Objective NHB 1Policy Objective NHB 2Policy Objective NHB 3Policy Objective NHB 4Policy Objective NHB 5Policy Objective NHB 9DM Standard 50DM Standard 46Policy Objective RH 9Policy Objective LCM 1Policy Objective LCM 2DM Standard 8DM Standard 28DM Standard 30
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission for a new dwelling, garage, and wastewater treatment system on a 0.40Ha site at Tievebaun, Co. Galway. The site is located in an unserviced rural area within a Class 4 landscape of iconic sensitivity and borders the Twelve Bens/Garraun Complex SAC. Galway County Council refused the application on five grounds: lack of demonstrated rural housing need, unsuitable site conditions for effluent disposal, potential negative impacts on the SAC, adverse visual impact on t...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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