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This proposal must inevitably impeded pedestrian and wheeling access.
This proposal must inevitably impeded pedestrian and wheeling access.
The Cockburn does not support this application.
The site of this proposal was designed as open public space and is currently used as such by a wide range of pedestrians. The proposed scale of the temporary structures and enclosures required to facilitate external events must inevitably impeded pedestrian and wheeling access.
We note the City of Edinburgh Council’s Transport and Environment Committee previously voted unanimously not to allow a traffic order to be brought into effect on Elder Street, part of St James Square, James Craig Walk, St James Place, Little King Street and Cathedral Lane. We believe that approval of the current application would be inconsistent with the overarching pedestrian focus of the Council’s earlier decision although we understand that the Council’s earlier decision is now potentially subject to review.
Of relevance also is the planning history of the wider site. A Christmas après ski bar – Bar Hutte – was constructed nearby quite recently, following noise complaints from residents, this was closed by the Council. This development had previously be refused planning permission due to concerns relating to noise disturbance.
The proposed advertising will harm the building’s aesthetic appeal and historical significance
The proposed advertising will harm the building’s aesthetic appeal and historical significance
The Cockburn Association has been supportive of the refurbishment of the Filmhouse, which is necessary to ensure the re-opening this iconic cultural asset.
However, the proposals in this application will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the character and setting of the listed building. They also fail to preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and the surrounding area in general.
The proposed advertising is excessively prominent and intrusive, which will harm the building’s aesthetic appeal and historical significance.
In this regard, the Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997, which aims to preserve the character and appearance of such areas is relevant .
Modern hotel designs and similar developments should incorporate built-in flexibility
Modern hotel designs and similar developments should incorporate built-in flexibility
The Cockburn has lodged a neutral comment on this proposal.
The proposal seems to be a sound design for its gable end setting, resembling contemporary enhancements to classic rows of sandstone tenements found throughout the city.
However, the proposed floorplans of the apart-hotel do not lend themselves to conversion into long-term, mainstream accommodation although conversion to PBSA accommodation may be possible. New designs for hotels or similar developments should have built-in flexibility and resilience to allow them to be future proofed for alternative uses at a future date should economic conditions alter the demand for transient accommodation.
Hotels and similar establishments with inherent flexibility and resilience represent a prudent approach for numerous reasons for any city aspiring to be a leader in terms of climate change and sustainability . By designing buildings that can be easily repurposed for alternative uses—such as mainstream residential accommodation —developers can maintain the property’s value and functionality in response to future market changes.
Furthermore, embracing sustainability through adaptive reuse minimizes the necessity for new construction, thereby lessening environmental impact. This strategy not only conserves resources but also aligns with the principles of sustainable development, climate mitigation and climate adaptation promoted in Edinburgh.
Additionally, as technology and societal demands change, buildings designed with flexibility in mind will remain relevant and functional, accommodating advancements in technology, shifts in work patterns, and changing lifestyle preferences. It is also the case that flexible buildings are likely to be better placed to address community needs by providing adaptable spaces for various purposes, depending on the prevailing requirements.
In summary, integrating flexibility and resilience into hotel and similar designs not only ensures ongoing value but also enables these structures to effectively respond to the changing needs of society.
