The first application, from TheSpace Scotland Community Interest Company, sought permission for a single-storey multi-use building on agricultural land between the A1 and the East Coast mainline, known as Dunbear Point. The proposed development includes a flexible performance auditorium, climbing hall, skatepark, café, bar, and bowling lanes, described by the applicant as a 'legacy' project powered by youth for the community.
Following public consultation which received 204 supporting representations out of 206, planners had initially recommended refusal due to concerns about the site's necessity, its identification in the local development plan, loss of agricultural land, drainage issues, and potential traffic increases. However, after debate, committee members unanimously approved the application with additional conditions regarding transport planning, walking and cycling routes, and drainage solutions, to be agreed at the December Planning Committee.
The second application, from Harbour Business Centres Ltd, proposed the demolition of an existing office building at Harbour Point, Newhailes Road, Musselburgh, to construct a purpose-built student accommodation building. The proposed C-shaped building would range from five to six storeys, offering 270 student studios, communal facilities, a gym, and cycle storage.
This revised application, which reduced the number of units from a previous submission that received 70 objections, was recommended for approval by planners with conditions including financial contributions to sustainable travel infrastructure and enhancements to the Musselburgh Sports Centre fitness suite. However, following a debate, committee members voted five to three to refuse the application.
The grounds for refusal cited the scale and design being out of keeping with the area, inadequate parking provision, insufficient amenity space, and potential noise impact on future student residents from surrounding uses. The relevant application numbers are: Dunbar, 25/01272/PM; and Musselburgh, 25/01247/PM.
