Short-term let accommodation at Flat 1 2 Brown's Close, 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 June 2016.”

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

“The property is a category B-listed building (listing reference: LB51172, listing date: September 2008), is in the Old Town Conservation Area and the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.”

“23/04832/CLESTL Flat 1 2 Brown's Close 65 Canongate Edinburgh EH8 8BT Application for the issue of a certificate of lawfulness confirming its existing use and a short-term let visitor accommodation. withdrawn 15 May 2024”

“Given the declared housing emergency and pressures on residential accommodation in Edinburgh, in addition to the economic and societal benefits that residential accommodation in the City brings in terms of people being able to live, work and contribute to their community, significant weight has to be given to the retention of existing residential accommodation.”

“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.”

“A total of 25 representations have been received, 22 comments in support, two objection comments and a petition, in support, with 21 signatories. Whilst there are 21 names and addresses on the petition, there is a duplicate signature. It is noted that 20 signatories have also submitted a comment in support. A summary of the representations is provided below:”

“− Negative impact on community cohesion − Negative impact on residential amenity. − Proposal does not comply with national and local policies. − Proposal will not benefit the local economy. − Property shares spaces with other residential properties.”

“25/01137/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.”