Longford Co Council refuses planning permission for housing development
Planning permission has been refused by Longford Co Council for a number of new houses in Newtowncashel.
The development at Cornadowagh in Newtowncashel proposed the construction of four semi-detached two storey dwellings with individual entrances to each property, inclusive of vehicular access on either side of the proposed development.
The planning application outlined that the serviced dwellings were to be connected to a proprietary commercial secondary treatment system with polishing filter and raised percolation area as per Manufacturer and EPA specifications and submitted drawings.
It was to involve the connection to public water main with all surface and stormwater to be connected to a soak pit as per BRE 365 recommendations and specifications.
Access was to be provided to the site from existing roadway inclusive of public footpaths, grass verging and of all ancillary site works.
In its notification for refusal, Longford Co Council said the applicant has not sufficiently demonstrated that the proposed wastewater treatment system and percolation area can adequately manage the disposal of wastewater from the site in accordance with EPA Code of Practice, Domestic Wastewater Treatment Systems (Population Equivalent ≤ 10), 2021.
“In the absence of this information in order to properly assess the impact on the local environment, to permit the said development could be prejudicial to public health due to risk of pollution and would not be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area,” the council outlined.
A second reason for the refusal, the council said, was because: “The applicant has failed to demonstrate compliance with the ‘Sustainable Residential Development and Compact Settlements Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ and The Longford County Development Plan 2021-2027”.
“The planning application lacks sufficient information to demonstrate that the proposed development would not have a serious impact on the residential amenity of the area and any future residents by reason of its siting and design. The development would therefore set an undesirable precedent within the area and is considered contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area,” the council said.
Cllr Martin Skelly submitted a letter of support for the development, which he said was “vital for the future viability and growth of our local community”.
He noted that Newtowncashel is facing a significant challenge of a declining population. He also noted historical flooding issues in the area but said he was working with the local authority to implement robust mitigation measures.