Permission refused for glamping pods in Kilkenny

Permission has been refused for the development of 10 short stay/holiday static glamping pods at a site in Clone, Freshford, County Kilkenny.

Permission was also sought for the replacement of the existing pumphouse and alterations to an as-built wastewater treatment plant and percolation area.

The local authority stated in their decision letter that 'camping sites should be located at appropriate locations within or adjacent to existing settlements where such proposals demonstrate the provision of safe pedestrian links to the settlement'.

They continue, "In addition, the proposal does not support any rural tourism initiative and the scale of the development having regard to tourist attractions of the area.

"The proposed development would therefore result in a commercial facility of excessive scale for this rural area, devoid of facilities and services or rural tourism product, and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and would set a precedence for other such developments on similar site."

They also stated that the applicant had 'failed to demonstrate that effluent from the proposed development can be treated and discharged at the subject site without risk to public health and the environment'. 

The applicant retains the right to appeal the decision to An Bord Pleanála.