Short-term let accommodation at Flat 8 53 Lothian Street, Edinburgh

“The change of use of this property to an 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.”

“The application is for a change of use from residential to short term let (sui generis). No internal or external physical changes are proposed. The applicant has advised that the property has been used as a short term let since December 2022. Therefore, the application is retrospective.”

“The application property is a studio flat, on the first floor of a three-storey converted church extension at 53 (Flat 8) Lothian Street. The property is accessed via a shared front door and communal stair which also serves other residential properties.”

“The property is part of a category 'B' listed building (LB 30137) designated on the 29/7/1986.”

“Use of the property as an STL would introduce an increased frequency of movement to the property, shared stairwell, and main entrance. Although it is noted that the property is a compact studio flat, its location on the first floor of the tenement means guests are required to pass the doors of other flats as they move to and from the property.”

“To comply with the policy, it is not sufficient to demonstrate that the STL use will deliver economic benefits; rather, it must be demonstrated that the economic benefits associated with any individual application are significant enough that they warrant the loss of a home, and the economic and other benefits associated with this.”

“- Brings economic benefits. - There will be no negative impact on residential amenity. - Not suitable for long-term housing. - Meets policy test of LDP Hou 6. - Meets policy test of NPF 4 30 (e).”

“- Negative impact on residential amenity (including community cohesion and residents' safety and security). - Negative impact on housing stock. - Negative impact on the World Heritage Site.”

“25/04422/FULSTL - report by the Chief Planning Officer To REFUSE planning permission for the reasons set out in section C of the report by the Chief Planning Officer.”