Short-term let conversion at 405 Webster's Land, 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 stay let commenced on 16/06/2017.”

“The applicant has provided a planning statement and economic report to support the application.”

“The application property is a first floor flat at 405 Webster's Land a large residential development arranged around a courtyard. It comprises a bedroom, kitchen/living room and bathroom. Access to the property is via a communal stair/walkway and a secure gated access.”

“The property is in the Old Town Conservation Area and the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.”

“22/02967/FUL 405 Webster's Land Edinburgh EH1 2RX Change of use from residential to short-term let (STL). Refused 13 October 2022”

“23/05982/CLESTL 405 Webster's Land Tollcross Edinburgh EH1 2RX Application for the issue of a Certificate of Lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. withdrawn 15 May 2024”

“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.”

“However, the one-bedroom property is accessed via an entrance door that is connected to the communal entrance gate by a walkway and stair, this is shared by other residential properties. Therefore, the use of this property as an STL would introduce an increased frequency of movement to and from the property through the shared entrance and corridor.”

“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.”

“A total of 25 representations have been received, 22 in support, two objections and a petition in support with 23 signatures was also received. It is noted that two of the petition signatories have also submitted comments in support. A summary of the representations is provided below.”

“The application has been referred to the Development Management Sub-Committee under the Council's Scheme of Delegation. The application must be determined by the Development Management Sub Committee due to the number of representations received.”

“25/00441/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. 4.20 - Flat 5, 30 West Crosscauseway, Newington Retrospective change of use of premises to short term let accommodation - application no.”