Waterford City and County Council has rejected a planning application for a proposed glamping pod development along the Ardmore Cliff Walk, citing concerns over sustainability, scenic protection, and potential negative impacts on local residential and rural amenities.
The proposal, submitted by David and Laura Mulcahy on May 14, sought permission to construct five glamping pods, five associated car parking spaces, and a designated biodiversity zone on a 0.36-hectare site located at Dysart, Ardmore.
According to WLR FM, the project also included a range of associated above- and below-ground works. A decision from the local authority was due by July 8.
Following the application, multiple objections were submitted by residents who expressed opposition to the project’s location and potential impact on the surrounding area.
In its official decision issued on July 8, the council outlined several reasons for refusal, referencing policy and planning concerns outlined in the Waterford City & County Development Plan 2022–2028.
In its ruling, the council stated:
“The proposed development would result in a haphazard, piecemeal and unsustainable form of development in a scenic rural area and would contribute to the encroachment of random rural development in the area and would undermine the settlement strategy and tourism policy objectives as set out in the Waterford City & County Development Plan 2022–2028.”
The authority also noted that approval could “set an undesirable precedent for similar type development and be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.”
Additionally, the Planning Authority raised concerns about the visual impact and landscape sensitivity of the proposed location, stating the development “would be detrimental to the high scenic quality of the area and would be contrary to Policy Objectives… regarding the protection of the landscape character and scenic values of visually vulnerable landscapes.”
The site is described as being at the end of a cul-de-sac, surrounded by agricultural land and coastal features, and situated outside the main village area. Planners determined that such a location would conflict with the residential and rural character.
For outdoor hospitality operators, this decision underscores the importance of aligning proposed developments with regional planning strategies, environmental sensitivities, and local community perspectives.
As local authorities increasingly prioritize sustainable development and scenic protection, business owners planning to expand into natural landscapes may need to engage in early-stage dialogue with stakeholders and demonstrate how their plans can complement existing tourism and conservation objectives.