A proposed glamping development in north Longford has been denied planning permission due to its location within an area deemed to have high landscape sensitivity. The application, submitted by Padraig Reilly to Longford County Council, sought approval for a tourism venture that included four glamping pods and one multi-use pod at Drumhalry, Moyne.
The proposal also featured plans for a utility and storage shed, a biodiversity-focused landscape with a pond, a proprietary wastewater treatment unit, and various other site works such as parking, signage, and fencing.
The application, submitted on September 10, 2024, had a closing date for submissions on October 14, with a decision reached on December 23.
Council planners cited the site’s proximity to Lough Gowna as a key factor in their decision to reject the proposal. The area is recognized as being of high amenity and landscape quality under the Longford County Development Plan 2021–2027.
According to an article published by Longford Live, the planners emphasized the importance of protecting this sensitive zone from developments that could adversely affect its natural character.
In their assessment, the planners stated that the development’s size, layout, and design would make it “visually obtrusive and have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the surrounding landscape.”
They referenced Policy CPO 14.19 of the development plan, which aims to preserve the scenic and ecological integrity of high-value landscapes across the county.
The planners also raised concerns about the compatibility of the development with the surrounding environment, further justifying their decision to refuse planning permission.
Four submissions were lodged during the review period, reflecting a mix of perspectives on the proposal. Two submissions were from local residents, Ciaran and Laura McCabe, who lodged their concerns on October 10 and October 20, respectively.
Institutional input also formed part of the review process, with submissions from NEHS (HSE) on September 17 and Uisce Éireann on September 21.
