Donegal County Council rejected a planning application for a wheelchair-accessible glamping pod in Letterilly, Glenties. MC Design and Planning Services submitted the proposal, seeking permission to establish a single pod, install a treatment system, and perform associated site works.
Despite the setback, the applicants have the option to appeal the decision. They can lodge an appeal with An Bord Pleanála within four weeks of the refusal.
The decision to refuse the application was based on the proposed development’s location. According to the chief executive’s order, the planning authority viewed the project as a modular holiday unit located on a remote rural site that is not within safe walking distance of local services and facilities. The Development Plan 2024-2023 emphasizes the importance of rural tourism accommodations being within safe walking distance of local amenities.
The planning authority also expressed concerns about the quality and management of the proposed accommodation. The order emphasized the poor quality of the proposed accommodation, its classification as a modular holiday unit rather than a glamping pod, and its closeness to residential properties.
Other concerns included insufficient management details and an overall fragmented development approach.
The order stated that the planning authority believes the development is not of high quality, would set a poor precedent for tourism accommodation, and negatively impact nearby residential amenities.
“It would be injurious to nearby residential amenities and would create an undesirable policy precedent for glamping developments in scenic rural areas,” the order indicated, as reported by Ireland Live on July 10.
This Donegal glamping pod application highlights the complex considerations in developing accessible tourism accommodations in rural areas. Balancing the needs of visitors and local residents requires careful planning and adherence to local development guidelines.
Furthermore, consultation with local residents underscores the importance of avoiding proposal rejection. Engaging with the community helps identify potential concerns, such as the impact on nearby residential amenities. By addressing these issues early, developers can adapt their plans to meet both regulatory standards and community expectations, fostering support and reducing the likelihood of objections.
