Short-term let accommodation at 2F4 23 Forbes Road, 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 the retrospective change of use of flat from residential to short term let (STL). No internal or external alterations are proposed. The applicant advises that the short term let use has been operating since September 2016.”

“The application property is a second floor flat within a four-storey tenement towards the north western end of Forbes Road, near the junction with Bruntsfield Place. It comprises two bedrooms, a kitchen, living room and bathroom. Access is via an entrance and stairwell shared with other residential properties.”

“Forbes Road is predominantly residential in nature and is characterised by low levels of on-street activity. The application property is located near the junction with Bruntsfield Road, where there is a mix of commercial and residential uses and high levels of activity. Public transport links are easily accessible from the site.”

“23/04578/CLESTL 2F4 23 Forbes Road Edinburgh EH10 4EG Application for the issue of a certificate of lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. withdrawn 15 May 2024”

“There is no pre-application process history.”

“The STL use would result in an increased frequency of movement to and from the building's shared entrance, stairwell, and vicinity. The use would enable 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.”

“A total of 46 representations have been received, 33 in support, 11 objections, one neutral comment and a petition in support with 21 signatories. Whilst there are 21 names and addresses, there is a duplicate signature. It is noted that 17 of the petition signatories have also submitted comments in support. A summary of the representations is provided below.”

“− STL's are ruining Edinburgh. − STL guests increase pressure on local services. − Well-managed. − Well-maintained. − Good relationship with property owner. − There have been no complaints. − There is a lack of STL's in the area. − Social media is being used to garner objections.”

“25/00949/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.”