One countryside dwelling at Approx 70m NE of 171a Seven Mile Straight, Muckamore, Antrim

The site and surroundings

The site was in the countryside outside settlement limits, within the curtilage of an existing dwelling and surrounded by rural development.

“The application site is situated on lands approximately 70m northeast of No. 171A Seven Mile Straight, Antrim. This is a countryside location situated outside any settlement limits as identified in the Antrim Area Plan 1984-2001.”

“The application site abuts the Seven Mile Straight and is within the curtilage of No. 171A. The northeastern (roadside) boundary is defined by ranch style fencing and the northwestern and southeastern boundaries are defined by mature trees. The southwestern boundary is undefined and the topography of the site is generally flat.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended refusal because the proposal did not meet the countryside cluster or built-up frontage policies.

“Strategic Policy SP1.11 of the ANPS indicates that development proposals in the countryside will be supported in principle provided that they accord with the relevant policies applicable to the development type otherwise it will not be permitted unless there are overriding reasons why it is essential in a countryside location and cannot be located within a settlement.”

“Policy DM 18C sets out the policy context whereby dwellings can be granted planning approval within a built-up frontage. DM 18.16 indicates that the Council will support an application for the development of a small gap site, sufficient only to accommodate up to a maximum of two dwellings within an otherwise substantial and continuously built-up frontage subject to a number of criteria being mel. The application site is situated to the front of No.”

Officer report

Neighbour’s concerns

One representation raised concerns about birds, cumulative effects on the area’s character and biodiversity.

“Three (3) neighbouring properties were notified and one letter of representation has been received.”

“A summary of the key points raised in the objection are listed below: e Concerns regarding the impact of development upon the objector’s birds; e Cumulative impact of development impacting upon the character of the area; and e Biodiversity concerns.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee heard from the agent in support and the speaker answered members’ questions.

The committee vote

A motion to refuse outline permission was proposed and seconded, passing with seven votes for, none against and one abstention.

“Proposed by Alderman Campbell Seconded by Councillor Bennington that outline planning permission be refused.”

“On the proposal being put to the meeting 7 voted in favour, 0 against and 1 abstention, it was agreed…”

Minutes