Decision on Lower Point Road houses upheld

An Bord Pleanála has upheld a decision of Louth County Council to grant permission for two houses in Dundalk.

The local authority had given the go-ahead to Declan Flood for two four-bedroom houses, each two storeys in height, at Golden Ridge, Lower Point Road.

Ten conditions, all a standard and technical nature, were attached for the cul de sac development on a 0.1347 hectares site.

That decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanála by neighbours, Denis and Joanne Daly and Alan and Bernice Clarke.

Among the concerns raised were the increase in the number of dwellings at Golden Ridge from five to seven, overlooking, noise pollution and an increase in traffic.

‘ The proposed dwellings are too close to adjacent property and are out of character with adjacent dwellings.

‘ The use of brick, mono-pitch roof and large windows are problematic. Each dwelling is of a different size and will lead to a disharmony in the character of the area.’

The appeals also argued that the planned houses will block the views that are protected in the Development Plan.

‘A shared entrance is not a common feature at this location and the lack of gate pillars introduces a different type of entrance.’

It was also submitted that the numbering system will be disrupted for Golden Ridge.

Three observations to the appeal, and against the proposal, were received from Cian Ó Náraigh, Mr and Mrs Patrick Martin, and Leo and Nora Gormley, as well as responses from the applicant and Louth County Council.

An inspector from An Bord Pleanála recommended that conditional permission be granted.

The Board decided to grant permission, generally in accordance with the inspector’s recommendation.

‘It is considered that the proposed development would not seriously injure the residential amenities of property in the vicinity, would not be prejudicial to public health and would be acceptable in terms of traffic and pedestrian safety and visual amenity.

‘ The proposed development would, therefore, be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.’