Short-term let accommodation at 1F1 1 St Stephen Place, Edinburgh

“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 August 2016.”

“The applicant has provided a supporting planning statement and an economic report.”

“This application relates to a first floor property situated in a four-storey and basement flatted building. There are residential properties above and at either side of the property. Access to the property is via a communal door and stairwell shared with residential properties.”

“The property forms part of a category B listed building (listing reference: LB29744, listing date: 14 December 1970), is in the New Town Conservation Area and the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.”

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

“The change of use of this 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.”

“− Economic benefit to the area resulting from the proposal. − Busy area so no increase in noise and disturbance. − The STL use will comply with licensing requirements. − No detrimental impact on amenity.”

“− Loss of residential accommodation − Negative impact on community cohesion. − The property uses a shared access and communal areas. − Negative impact on residential amenity, including noise disturbance and security − concerns. − Introduction of STL will have a negative impact on the character of the area − Negative impact on traffic.”

“25/00269/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 4.24 - 1 Thistle Street, New Town, Edinburgh…”