Owner of Glasgow Pollokshields flats secures temporary permit after neighbor complaints of parties and parking issues.
Initially, in 2023, planners rejected his bid to change an HMO into short-term lets and an appeal against this ruling failed in March. Later, Hussain proposed an “aparthotel”, but planners refused this idea in October.
Hussain appealed again, and city councillors narrowly voted for him this time, granting temporary permission lasting 18 months. The council wants to review the use’s impact, and prior rejections stemmed from area concerns, where planners felt residential loss outweighed economic gain.
Hussain’s appeal addressed management worries, reducing apartments from eight to seven and including a “permanently staffed” reception. He claimed the property is not a “party house” and that stag or hen parties are not allowed based on revised rules.
Guests violating house rules will face eviction, and noise limits trigger management alerts. A letting company handles advertising and upkeep, while the first application had 36 objections, and the aparthotel faced nine objections.
Councillor Jon Molyneux voiced resident concerns including waste dumping, noise, and parking. He noted unlawful aparthotel operation for two years and pointed out Pollokshields needs family housing.
A neighbor reported persistent noise and rubbish and added guests block streets with cars. Another said there is constant visitor turnover and the large number of apartments encourages parties.
Councillors approved it five to four. Committee chair Ken Andrew wanted refusal and disliked the management plan, questioning the 24-hour phoneline, citing residential area concerns.
Councillor Declan Blench thought earlier refusals correct. Hanif Raja proposed approving the plan, while Imran Alam felt it aids the local economy and suggested benefits for Albert Drive businesses.