Short-term let accommodation at Flat 9 14 Albion Gardens, Leith, 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 the property from a flatted dwelling to short term let. 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 01/04/2021.”

“The application property is a two-bedroom flat on the second floor of a contemporary five-storey block at 14 (Flat 9) Albion Gardens, Leith. There is a balcony off the kitchen/living area of the flat. The property shares its access to the street via a communal stair with other properties. The shared entrance to the block is on the east side approximately 10 metres from the parking area.”

“Albion Gardens is a modern development of mainly five-storey apartment blocks. It is entirely residential and is accessed off Albion Road. Public transport links are accessible from the site.”

“Pending planning enforcement investigation into alleged unauthorised use from residential to short term let (reference 25/00513/ESHORT).”

“Use of the property as an STL would introduce an increased frequency of movement to the property, balcony, shared stairwell and main entrance. The property's location on the second floor of the residential block means guests are required to pass doors of other residents as they move to and from the property.”

“In this instance, it has not been demonstrated that the loss of the residential accommodation is outweighed by demonstrable local economic benefits. As such, the proposal does not comply with NPF 4 Policy 30(e) part (ii).”

“25/01598/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.”