‘Retention’ permission has again been refused for controversial boundary fencing and other works at a west Donegal golf club.
Earlier this year, Liam McDevitt unsuccessfully sought to retain a number of changes including an electric fence and a gate at an entrance at Narin and Portnoo Golf Course. He resubmitted a similar application in November, however, it was refused permission in recent days by Donegal County Council.
Letters in support of the application were submitted by Narin & Portnoo Community Action Group (NPCAG) as well as Narin & Portnoo Golf Club and a number of local residents. However, numerous objectors argued that, as a result of the development, a public right-of-way to Castlegoland Beach had been blocked and the local environment damaged.
In making their latest decision, council planners stated the boundary fencing along the dunes would ‘constitute a highly obtrusive development’. They added it would ‘detract from the existing natural character’ of the area. Planners said it would also form an ‘unacceptable level of separation’ from the adjoining coast to enable safe access and protection to the adjoining Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
In addition, the council felt the likelihood of the development having a ‘significant impact’ on the West of Ardara/Maas Road SAC ‘could not be excluded’. Planners concluded they were not satisfied the works carried out to date have not had a negative impact on National Monuments in the area.
Mr McDevitt now has until the first week of January to appeal the decision to An Bord Pleanala.
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