Short-term let accommodation at Flat 14 2 North Pilrig Heights, Pilrig, Edinburgh

“The application property is second floor flat within an eight-storey modern residential block. It comprises two bedrooms a living room, kitchen, two bathrooms and a balcony. Access is via a communal entrance and stairwell/elevator shared with other residential properties.”

“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 application form states that the short stay use commenced on 02/10/2021.”

“The immediate surrounding area of Pilrig Heights North and Pilrig Heights is residential in nature and is characterised by low levels of on-street activity which reduces at night. Pilrig Heights is bordered by Rosebank Cemetery to the north east, while a former railway line separates the site from further flatted development and a church to the south west. The wider surrounding area is also predominately residential.”

“23/05025/CLESTL Flat 14 2 North Pilrig Heights Edinburgh EH6 5FE Application for a certificate of lawfulness for a short-term let. Refused 5 June 2024”

“CLUD-230-2134 Flat 14 2 North Pilrig Heights Edinburgh EH6 5FE Appeal against decision issued under certificate of lawfulness application 23/05025/CLESTL”

“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 the residential character of the area and 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 STL use would result in an increased frequency of movement to and from the building's shared entrance, stairwell/elevator, 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.”

“Details surrounding the management of the property as an STL have been provided, however, only limited regard can be given to this. The operator is unable to have complete control over the behaviour of guests as there is no full-time on-site management presence.”

“A total of 37 representations have been received, 25 in support and 12 objections. A summary of the representations is provided below.”

“− Impact on amenity, safety, and security concerns. − Impact on local community. − Impact on parking. − Impact on housing stock.”

“− Economic benefit of STL use. − Positive impact on tourism. − Well-located. − No amenity impact. − STLs provide alternative accommodation to hotels.”

“25/01570/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.”