LASplanning LLP scoped, assessed and compiled a change of use application for operation as a café in the Shandon area of Edinburgh. The café, Tea and Sympathy had been in operation for 5 years (opened in 2017), concerning a unit which was vacant for 4 years prior to being a Class 1 hairdressers for approximately 30 years. The café is in an area characterised with residential tenements and terraced housing, in addition to a small parade of neighbourhood shops and services.
The work undertaken by LASplaning LLP, provided planning justification and supporting information for the change of use. In doing this, it was recognised that Edinburgh City Council has supported changing demands in retail floorspace, specifically that retail is not as essential to support the vitality and viability of a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood area.
The planning application was compiled and submitted in line with the Client’s brief and to ensure compliance with the Edinburgh City Plan Local Development Plan 2030 (September 2021). In doing this, it was recognised that the café is an established and proven business which helps locally to ensure that individuals, communities and visitors within the immediate locale are afforded the opportunity to access hospitality services. The café is conveniently located, reducing the need to rely on car or bus travel elsewhere. The opportunity to support local business investment and the provision of local facilities within an existing building unit, ensures that communities associate positively with the neighbourhood.
The café has become a hub of the community used and valued by locals, including becoming a location for those working from home to socially interact. The clientele includes all ages and many elderly people also come regularly to enjoy social interaction. The cafe therefore instils a sense of pride in place for people within the local community.
It was also highlighted that the proposed use makes a meaningful and sustained contribution to local employment opportunities within the immediate area of the application site.
Following submission of the planning application…
Following submission of the planning application, LASplanning LLP worked closely with Edinburgh City Council’s planning department to achieve a mutually agreed outcome. During Edinburgh City Council’s assessment of the planning application, a noise assessment was requested. LASplanning LLP worked closely with Ellendale Environmental who compiled the noise assessment meeting Environmental Health’s criteria. This was accepted and planning consent was granted on 21st November 2022.
Tea & Sympathy – Background
‘Tea & Sympathy is a welcoming, homely hangout in the heart of Shandon. We offer good coffee, sweet treats and a range of delicious toasted sandwiches, melts, filled rolls and gourmet hand made Scotch eggs.
We also have a selection of specially selected items which includes a range of art work, kitchenware, greetings cards and much more!
As we strive to be an important business in the community we are also dog and child friendly! Making sure that everyone feels welcome.’
This case study is compiled using publicly available information and is a factual representation of activities undertaken
More Information
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