Flood risks see Ballybofey development refused

An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission for the development of 24 houses at a ghost estate in Ballybofey.

The planning authority has cited flood risks in its decision, which was conveyed in late October.

McHugh Bros (Builders) Ltd had sought permission for the development at Navenny, Ballybofey. They sought to demolish 13 partially built dwellings and eight partially built detached garages before constructing 24 two-storey dwellings in 12 semi-detached blocks.

In May 2022, Donegal County Council granted conditional planning permission, which was subject to 35 conditions.

A subsequent appeal was lodged to An Bord Pleanála by local residents.

The appeal included concerns over the site being located in a flood zone, the positioning of a proposed play area close to the River Finn and concerns over noise and air pollution regarding a temporary wastewater treatment system. Objectors said there is ‘an abundance’ of vacant housing in the Ballybofey and Stranorlar area and an issue was raised over the prospect of the public foul network not being upgrade ‘for a long time’, meaning the wastewater treatment system would ‘become a permanent feature’.

The residents also said that consideration should be given to the possible impact on the development of wildlife.

While an inspector recommended the granting of planning permission, subject to conditions, An Bord Pleanála said it was ‘ not satisfied that the applicant had demonstrated that the proposed development satisfied all of the criteria of the Justification Test’.

“The Board is not satisfied that the proposed development will not increase flood risk on adjacent lands, in particular, the impacts of the proposed bunds on flood waters on adjoining lands and on the application site, in the event of a fluvial flood event, have not been clearly demonstrated,” the planning authority wrote.

“Furthermore, the siting of the proposed sewage treatment plant and associated pump within Flood Zone B exacerbates risk to people, property and the environment. . . The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.”