Short-term let accommodation at 12 Royston Terrace, 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 01/07/2022.”

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

“The application property is a ground floor flat within a four-storey tenement building on the southern side of Royston Terrace. It comprises two bedrooms, a kitchen, sitting room, box room and bathroom. Access is via a private front door and path from the street.”

“Royston Terrace is predominantly residential in character and has low levels of on- street activity, especially in the evenings. There is a garage situated in close proximity to the west of the property which creates increased noise and activity during the day. Royston Terrace adjoins Inverleith Row to the west which contains a mix of commercial and residential uses and higher levels of activity. Public transport links are easily accessible from the site.”

“23/06050/CLESTL 12 Royston Terrace Warriston Edinburgh EH3 5QS Application for the issue of a Certificate of Lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. withdrawn 15 May 2024”

“Planning Contravention Notice (PCN) Served - Alleged unauthorised change of use from residential dwelling to a short term let.”

“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.”

“Whilst the property has its own private entrance and does not have shared communal areas, it is within a predominantly residential street which has low levels of on-street activity, especially in the evenings when the nearby garage is closed.”

“The proposed use in this location is not compatible with the residential character of the area. Furthermore, the activity and noise generated by the proposed use would be significantly different from what neighbouring residents living within the street might reasonably expect and consequently will have a significant detrimental effect on their living conditions and amenity.”

“A total of 61 representations have been received, 24 in support, 36 in objection and a petition with 21 signatories. It is noted that eight of the petition signatories have also submitted comments in support. A summary of the representations is provided below.”

“− Negative amenity impact, including safety and security concerns. − Loss of housing. − Loss of community. − Negative impact on parking.”

“25/00538/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. 4.32 - 301 Webster's Land, Edinburgh, EH1 2RU”