Core Planning Reasoning
The applicant failed to demonstrate that the proposed settlement ponds and silted water collection drainage systems were adequately sized and designed to handle surface and ground water run-off, particularly during storm events, posing an unacceptable risk of pollution to the Derryreel Stream.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- While the principle of a quarry extension in an area of high scenic amenity is acceptable under current policy (CDP 2), the technical execution regarding water management is fundamentally flawed.
- The applicant has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the reduction in settlement pond capacity from a 1-in-100-year storm event to a 1-in-20-year storm event, nor have they accounted for potential groundwater seepage.
- The reliance on unauthorized and abandoned settlement ponds for road run-off management is unacceptable and risks the deterioration of the Derryreel Stream's water quality.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Policy NH-P-7 (CDP 2018-2024)Policy L-P-2 (CDP 2024-2030)Objective WW-O-1 (CDP 2024-2030)Policy WW-P-2 (CDP 2024-2030)Policy EX-P-1 (CDP 2024-2030)Objectives WES-O-4 to 6 (CDP 2018-2024)Table 16.3 (CDP 2024-2030)
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought a 20-year permission for the extraction of rock and gravel (20,000 tonnes/annum) at a 4.48-hectare site in Derryreel, Co. Donegal, which includes a former quarry void. The site is located in a high scenic amenity area and is hydrologically linked to the Ballyness Bay SAC. While the Planning Authority initially granted permission subject to 20 conditions, the Inspector identified critical deficiencies in the water management strategy upon appeal. Key concerns included the ina...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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