Short-term let refused as "critical" housing shortage highlighted in Dunkeld and Birnam
dailyrecord.co.ukCouncillors have refused plans for a short-term let in Birnam in an area which has a "critical" housing shortage. The change of use application was refused by councillors in the same week neighbouring Dunkeld was named by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in Scotland.However only days before The Sunday Times announcement councillors highlighted how trying to find a home to rent or buy in the Dunkeld and Birnam was an issue.The picturesque villages of Dunkeld and Birnam are separated by the River Tay connected by a short hop over a historic bridge.
One local councillor told Perth and Kinross Council's Planning and Placemaking Committee the area was "overwhelmed" by holiday lets.
The committee met on Wednesday, March 22 to consider an application submitted by Alex Kettles Architects on behalf of applicants Elizabeth-Anne and Christopher Neil.
Officers recommended approval of the application to change the use of the newly built flat at Merlin House from a residential home to a short-term let unit.Strathtay Conservative councillor Ian James moved to refuse the application for the flat which no one has yet lived in as a residential home.He said: "Dunkeld is depreciating - if you like - by its own success.
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