Core Refusal Reason
Refusal is recommended due to the site's unsuitability for wastewater treatment (high water table and bedrock vulnerability) and the failure to demonstrate adequate sightlines for the proposed vehicular access on the R340, which would create a traffic hazard.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- While the applicant meets the eligibility criteria for a house in this rural area under Objective RH4, the site itself is technically deficient for development.
- The observed site conditions, including a high water table and shallow bedrock, mean the site is incapable of safely treating foul effluent, posing a risk of water pollution and prejudice to public health.
- The proposed entrance fails to meet the required sightline standards for a regional road (R340), which would result in a significant traffic hazard for turning movements.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RH 4Objective RH 5Objective LCM 1Objective LCM 2Objective LCM 3Objective PVSR 1DM Standard 8DM Standard 28DM Standard 46Objective RH 9Objective RH14Policy RH16
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involves the construction of a 117 sqm single-storey house, a tertiary wastewater treatment plant, and a polishing filter on a 0.34 ha agricultural site at An Aird Mhóir, Co. Galway. The site is located in a 'Class 3 Special' landscape sensitivity area and a 'Structurally Weak Area'. The Planning Authority originally refused permission based on the negative visual impact of the unconventional site configuration on the coastal landscape. While the Inspector disagreed with the PA on l...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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