Holyrood Aparthotel’s plan for 26 extra rooms blocked. Councilors feared harming the Old Town’s unique appeal.
Officers disliked the roof’s design, thinking it was too big for the area. Councillor Staniforth spoke at the committee, acknowledging the benefits of tourist accommodation. However, he argued that damaging the Old Town’s appeal is unwise.
He emphasized that tourists come for the unique character, and harming it for more tourists is a mistake. Another councilor, Mowat, agreed about the dangers and criticized how the courtyard was handled. The plan filled in the welcoming space, changing it into a narrow alleyway that feels unsafe for many people.
The design felt wrong for area’s dense character. One expansion added five stories atop the carpark, while the other added a story to the existing building.The carpark makes a courtyard with a close. The extension would take almost all open space. The hotel owners at Edinburgh Collection had no comment.