Hostel extension and bar at 37 - 39 Cowgate, Old Town, Edinburgh

“Proposed three and four storey extension with dormers to the existing hostel and a public house (sui generis) at ground floor incorporating partial conversion of the existing ground floor, plus minor ancillary internal alterations.”

“The building would have a maximum height of approximately 16.7 metres (m), width of 16 m and depth of 12.3 m. Internally, the upper floors would contain 10 dorm rooms in total, bathrooms and lift provision. The hostel would be accessed from Cowgate as per the existing arrangement whilst the bar would be accessed from Candlemaker Row.”

“The site is a three storey hostel and associated courtyard with a seating area and a bar. The building forms part of a category C listed (LB ref 28594, date added 13/08/1987) 17th century tenement. It is constructed with sandstone walls, timber sash and case windows with a pitched slate roof. Features of interest include a curved turret facing the junction of Candlemaker Row and Cowgate.”

“It is recommended that this application be Granted subject to the details below.”

“The proposal is acceptable with regard to Sections 14 and 64 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997. It will not harm the listed buildings, their setting and will preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.”

“Whilst clearly the proposal differs in appearance to a historic tenement, its three to four storey scale can replicate this historic pattern of development. Additionally, its modern design takes some cues from this historic context. Its rectangular form, pitched roof, uniform vertical window arrangement and textured ashlar sandstone draw on the tenements' historic characteristics.”

“The site is within an area of archaeological and historic significance being located within the medieval Old Town in proximity to several historic listed buildings. The works involve excavation which could impact on remains of archaeological and historic significance. The City Archaeologist has therefore recommended a programme of archaeological works to be imposed by condition to safeguard the interests of archaeological heritage.”

“25/04409/LBC – Report by the Chief Planning Officer To GRANT listed building consent subject to the conditions, reasons and informatives as set out in section C of the report by the Chief Planning Officer.”