Short-term let accommodation at Flat 6 9 Cables Wynd, North Leith, Edinburgh

“Planning permission is sought for the retrospective change of use of the residential property to short term let (sui generis). The applicant indicates on the application form that the STL use began on 21 April 2018.”

“This application relates to a third-floor flatted dwelling situated in a five-storey modern residential development. It comprises two bedrooms, an en-suite, a shower room and a lounge/diner/kitchen room. Access to the property is via a communal door and stairwell shared with other residential properties.”

“Although there are mixed uses located at the western end of Cables Wynd, the property is located in the eastern end which is predominantly residential.”

“23/05282/CLESTL Flat 6 9 Cables Wynd Edinburgh EH6 6DU 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 withdrawn 15 May 2024”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 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 loss of residential accommodation.”

“The proposal is contrary to National Planning Framework 4 Policy 30(e) in respect of local amenity and loss of residential accommodation, as the use of this property 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.”

“Although there are commercial uses to the west of the property, the property is located in a quieter residential section of Cables Wynd where there is a reduced pattern of activity. The introduction of an STL would introduce an increased frequency to and from the property through the shared entrance and stairwell, enabling 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…”

“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.”

“25/02319/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.”