Short-term let flat at Flat 16 37 Pilrig Heights, Pilrig, Edinburgh

“Proposal: Retrospective change of use from residential flat (Sui Generis) to short term let holiday accommodation (Sui Generis).”

“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 application property is a third floor flat within a modern flatted development at the south western end of Pilrig Heights. It comprises a bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom. Access is via a communal entrance and stairwell/elevator shared with other residential properties.”

“The immediate surrounding area of 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, 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. However, it also contains a mix of other uses such a public houses and hotels.”

“23/05124/CLESTL Flat 16 37 Pilrig Heights Edinburgh EH6 5FB Application for a certificate of lawfulness for a short-term let. Refused 24 May 2024”

“Dismissed - The use of the property for short-term letting accommodation amounts to a material change of use of the property which requires planning permission.”

“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.”

“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.”

“− Negative impact on amenity, including safety and security concerns. − Loss of housing. − Parking issues. − Goes against residential character of the development.”

“− Positive economic impact. − Good for community. − Well-located for an STL use. − STLs provide much needed alternative to hotels.”

“25/01731/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.”

“The proposal is contrary to Local Development Plan Policy Hou 6 in respect of Inappropriate Uses in Residential Areas, as the use of this property as a short term let will have a materially detrimental effect on the living conditions and amenity of nearby residents.”

“The proposal is contrary to National Planning Framework 4 Policy 30(e) in respect of Local Character and Amenity, and Loss of Residential Accommodation, as the use of this dwelling as a short term let will result in an unacceptable impact on local amenity and the loss of a residential property has not been justified.”