PLANS to allow a Greenock town centre flat to be used for short-term letting have been given the green light by council bosses.

Inverclyde Council has approved a ‘change of use’ application for a two-bedroom second floor flat in Crown Street – despite three objections from members of the public.

A report by the local authority official who dealt with the application states: “The applicant specifies a typical duration of stay of around two weeks and has further indicated that the number of lets is typically up to 24 per annum.

“The supporting information suggests a likely maximum of four occupants.”

The decision comes just a few days after a proposal to turn a vacant set of offices in the town's Union Street into flats for short-term letting was rejected.

READ MORE: Controversial bid to turn empty Greenock offices into short-term lets is rejected

Objectors to the Crown Street proposal complained about the potential for negative noise impacts, anti-social behaviour, overcrowding and seeking clarify on who would be responsible for the maintenance of common areas.

Applicant Jaye Polaine, of Greenlaine Ltd, located at 30 Crown Street, stated in documents submitted to the council that he “will do most of the cleaning, as I will be visiting the property very regularly, but if I am unable then it will be cleaned by a company”.

Mr Polaine adds: “The property will be looked after by an agent who will take care of bookings and be a point of contact for guests.

“We have spoken to all neighbours  and advised of our intentions and exchanged contact details.”

The council officer’s report states: “The use of the flat for short term lets is not considered to adversely impact on neighbouring users.

“The economic benefit locally is not outweighed by the loss of conventional residential accommodation.

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“Natural and historic assets are not impacted by the development, and the use as a short term let can be supported by sustainable public transport.

“This proposed change of use to short-term letting is not considered a significant alteration to the profile of the local area.

“The use of the property for short-term lets is acceptable when assessed against the relevant policies of National Planning Framework 4 and the adopted and proposed local development plans