Short-term let accommodation at PF1 3 Glen Street, Edinburgh

What was proposed

The application sought retrospective permission to change a one-bedroom flat from residential use to short-term let accommodation, without physical alterations.

“The application is for the retrospective change of use of the property from a flatted dwelling to short term let (STL). No internal or external physical changes are proposed. The applicant indicates on the application form that the operation of the property as a short term let commenced on 01 September 2017.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

The property’s operation as a short-term let was stated to have started in September 2017, and a 2024 lawfulness application was refused.

“23/05501/CLESTL PF1 3 Glen Street Tollcross Edinburgh EH3 9JD Application for the issue of a Certificate of Lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. Refused 23 July 2024”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended refusal because the use would harm neighbouring amenity and the economic benefits did not outweigh the loss of residential accommodation.

“It is recommended that this application be Refused subject to the details below.”

“The change of use of the property to a short-term let (STL) will have an unacceptable impact on neighbouring amenity. The loss of the residential accommodation has not been justified. Whilst it is recognised that there is an economic benefit to the City as a whole from the provision of tourist accommodation, in this case it does not outweigh the adverse impact on residential amenity or the loss of residential accommodation.”

Officer report

Main planning concerns

Visitors’ regular movement, possible noise and additional servicing were considered significantly different from residential use, while housing retention was given substantial weight.

“The application property is located on Glen Street, an area which is primarily residential with low levels of on-street activity and ambient noise. The one-bedroom property shares an entrance and stairwell with other residential properties.”

“Given the declared housing emergency and pressures on residential accommodation in Edinburgh, in addition to the economic and societal benefits that residential accommodation in the City brings in terms of people being able to live, work and contribute to their community, significant weight has to be given to the retention of existing residential accommodation.”

Officer report

What people said

Objectors raised amenity, community mix, housing loss, noise and disturbance; supporters cited licensing, no harm and economic benefits.

“- Impact on local amenity, character, and community mix. - Loss of residential housing with no economic benefit. - Increased noise and disturbance.”

“- No negative impact on residential amenity. - Proposal complies with licensing requirements. - The proposal will result in an economic benefit which outweighs the loss of residential accommodation.”

Officer report

The decision

“Decision 4.13 –1F1 8 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1DT Retrospective change of use of premises to short term let accommodation - application no.”

Minutes, 25 Mar 2026