Short-term let accommodation at Flat 2 19 Old Fishmarket Close, Edinburgh

“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.”

“The application is for a change of use from residential to short term let (STL) (sui generis). No internal or external physical changes are proposed. The applicant advises that the short term let use has been in operation since November 2017. The application is therefore retrospective.”

“The application property is a two-bedroom flat on the first floor of a seven storey modern residential block at 19 (Flat 2), Old Fishmarket Close. The property shares its access to the street via a communal stair and main entrance door with other properties. There is a restaurant on the ground floor of the block.”

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

“24/01673/CLESTL Flat 2 19 Old Fishmarket Close 190 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1RW Application for the issue of a Certificate of Lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. withdrawn 2 July 2024”

“However, the use of this property as a short term let would have the potential to introduce an increased frequency of movement to the dwelling, main entrance and shared stair at unsociable hours. The proposed two-bedroom short term let use would enable visitors to arrive and stay at the premises for short periods of time throughout the year in a manner dissimilar to that of permanent residents.”

“The additional servicing that operating a property as an STL requires compared to that of a residential use is also likely to result in an increase in disturbance, further impacting on neighbouring amenity. However, this would be of lesser impact as it is likely that servicing would be conducted during the daytime.”

“A total of 23 representations have been received, 22 in support, including a petition, and one objection. The petition in support has 21 signatories. Whilst it has 21 names and addresses, there is a duplicate signature. It is noted that 19 of the petition signatories have also submitted comments in support.”

“− Brings economic benefits. − There will be no negative impact on residential amenity. − The STL use will comply with licensing requirements.”

“25/00833/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. 4.16 - 3F2, 40 St Mary's Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SX”