Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused due to significant environmental and landscape concerns, specifically the site's unsuitability for wastewater treatment over a vulnerable karst aquifer, potential impacts on protected species (Lesser Horseshoe Bat), and the lack of justification for a one-off dwelling in a 'Special' sensitivity landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The site is unsuitable for the safe disposal of domestic effluent due to its location over a Regionally Important Karstified Aquifer with extreme vulnerability and shallow soil depth, posing a risk to public health and water quality.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of nearby European sites, specifically regarding the foraging range of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat and potential hydrological connectivity.
- The proposed dwelling, located in a Class 4 'Special' landscape, lacks sufficient justification for its remote siting and would result in haphazard development that fails to integrate into the sensitive rural environment.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RHO1Objective RHO3Objective RHO9Objective NHB1Objective NHB3Objective NHB6Objective DS6Objective LCM1Objective LCM2Objective WS11Objective WS13Objective WW5Objective WW7DM Standard 6DM Standard 27DM Standard 28DM Standard 39
Decision Document Summary
Sarah Linnane sought permission for a dwelling, garage, and wastewater system at Cappanapisha North, Gort, Co. Galway. The site is located in a rural area with Class 4 'Special' landscape sensitivity and overlies a highly vulnerable karst aquifer. Galway County Council refused the application primarily because the site's geological conditions make it unsuitable for wastewater treatment, posing risks to groundwater and protected European sites. Additionally, the proposal was deemed to be haphazar...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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