A Perth Airbnb has been granted a licence despite objections from local residents.
The short-term let in the Muirton area of the city has been operating since August but a recent law change means a licence is now needed.
Councillors unanimously agreed to grant a three-year licence for the two bedroom flat on Muirton Place on Monday.
Fears included an increase in noise, parking issues, and security concerns.
What were the concerns?
Scottish Government legislation approved last year means Airbnb owners now need to have a licence to run tourist accommodation in residential properties.
The application faced eight objections from local residents in the area including:
- Noise
- Increased traffic and parking problems
- That the Airbnb would not fit into the theme of the street
- Concerns about security
- Property will not be available as a home to local people
However, applicant Sofya Devyatova, and her husband, Abdul Bello, said they had never received complaints before.
Speaking after the meeting, Sofya told The Courier: “I’m surprised and delighted the application got approved.
“I’m glad councillors saw through the objections, some of which were more personal hits than objections about how our business is run.”
She added: “I’m surprised because Perth is known to be slow moving and often not willing to change a lot.
“They like to preserve our community but we are looking to move forward with new business ideas which hopefully attract more tourists and visitors in Perth.”
Adbul added: “Out intentions will be the same. We are committed to trying to keep everyone around us happy.
“If there’s any issue we’ll always be happy to sort things – we understand where they (the objectors) are coming from.”
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