Councillors have refused an appeal bid to transform a flat across from the Kelvingrove museum into a short term holiday let.

There were hopes to rent the two bedroom West End flat to up to four visitors but the bid was knocked back at yesterday’s planning local review committee with every politician against the move.

Glasgow Times:

Concerns were expressed over residents and holiday makers using the same close and stairwell to enter flat 3/1 at 17 Hastie Street and there were worries over not knowing who is coming or going at the West End property.

Councillor Martha Wardrop, Scottish Greens, said as there was only one single door for entry there could be ”mixing of people from different housing types, which could lead to concerns about safety and security.”

Although conceding there may be a boost for tourism, Labour Councillor Imran Alam said: “Security is a big issue with the majority of these short term lets. You don’t know who is coming and going.

“It would be a good thing for the city as it could boost tourism and visitors. However we need to look at safeguarding the interests of the people who live in the property at the moment. My experience in my ward (Govan) with AirBNB is that anti social behaviour and crime becomes an issues.”

Committee chair Ken Andrew, SNP, said it was “unusual” that no management plan had been presented by the applicant – particularly at the appeal stage.

The appeal from applicant Ms Stella Russon was knocked back unanimously.

Councillors refused the appeal for a number of reasons – including that it was contrary to certain policies and would lead to a mix of mainstream residential flats and short-stay accommodation within a single building and hinder the provision of homes.

The appeal statement lodged on behalf of the applicant said the short let would not change the residential character and amenity of the area or cause a disturbance.

It also pointed out a number of popular festivals occur within one mile of the site annually and providing short-term let accommodation in Glasgow reduces the number of trips from neighbouring towns.

One objection was received expressing noise concerns, fears about parties taking place and the impact on property values.