Short-term let in a flat at PF3 42 Buchanan Street, Leith, Edinburgh

“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.”

“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 06 July 2016.”

“The application property is a ground floor flatted dwelling within a four-storey tenement. The property comprises one bedroom, shower room, kitchen, and living room. The approximate floor area of the property is 40.1 square metres.”

“The property is located within the Leith Conservation Area.”

“Enforcement History 21/00651/ESHORT Alleged unauthorised change of use from residential to short stay commercial visitor accommodation. Case closed 04 November 2021”

“Appeal to DPEA against application 24/04346/CLESTL, 28 February 2025. DPEA Reference: CLUD-230-2300 Status: Appeal Dismissed. Decision Date: 22 July 2025”

“The use of this property as an STL would introduce an increased frequency of movement to the property through the shared entrance and corridor, enabling visitors to arrive and stay at the premises for a short period of time on a regular basis throughout the year in a manner dissimilar to that of permanent residents.”

“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.”

“- Impact from increased noise and disturbance.”

“- No impact to surrounding character or residential amenity.”

“25/03843/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. 4.7 – 1 Coalhill, Edinburgh, EH6 6RH”