Summer short-term letting application for Stirling student flats goes to appeal

UK PBSA (Forthside Way Stirling) Ltd submitted a planning application to Stirling Council seeking a variation of a condition of the original planning permission for the 209-bed building which restricted the development for student use only.

In October, councillors rejected the application by six votes to two on the basis it would impact the area, particularly in terms of parking and the potential increased turnaround of people using the accommodation.

But the developers have now registered an appeal with the Scottish Government’s DPEA (Planning and Environment Appeal’s Division) alleging the panel’s reason for refusal was “not appropriate” and should be overturned.

In documents submitted to the appeal reporter, agents for the developers said: “The appeal proposal seeks to deliver a temporary tourism related use in a highly accessible and sustainable location, which visitors can access through various transport modes within a short distance from the site. The proposal will also enable the continued active use of the site during the summer months when students typically return home, ensuring an on-going footfall in the area to support the vibrancy and vitality of the city centre.

“Potential users of the proposed short-term holiday lets will be made aware that no on-site car parking is provided, whilst also making them aware of the nearby public transport links within a short walk of the site. If visitors arrive by car there is a large car park at Forthside, or park and ride facility, within close proximity.

“Although the turnover of bedspaces will be more regular during the short term let period, the existing student accommodation is at, or close to, full capacity with students for the majority of the year. It is unlikely the same level of occupancy will be achieved for the full shortterm let period.

“Given the less intense occupation of the building as short-term let holiday accommodation, and the different pattern of activity (with visitors less likely to spend long periods of time at the accommodation during the day, nor come and go to the same extent as student occupants) the level of discernible activity at the appeal site would be significantly less, rather than more, intense during this period.”