Thursday September 3rd 2026
Terraced property on Shorthope Street, in Musselburgh town centre, could become a House of Multiple Occupancy
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Marie Sharp
Antisocial issues in an East Lothian town centre has led to residents protesting plans to turn a terraced home into a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).
More than a dozen neighbours and local business owners have signed a letter objecting to the plans to change the use of the house on Shorthope Street, in Musselburgh.
Among concerns raised is ongoing problems with antisocial behaviour, vandalism and alleged alcohol and drug misuse.
In the letter, which will go before East Lothian Council’s licensing sub committee next week, objectors urge councillors to refuse the application for an HMO licence to allow five unrelated people to live in the five bedroom property.
They argue the street, which is a narrow connector street between Musselburgh High Street and the River Esk, has significant pedestrian movement and environmental pressures.
They state: “The area is already affected by ongoing antisocial behaviour, include alcohol and drug misuse.
“This has led to repeated disturbances, noise, littering and incidents requiring police involvement.”
They add: “There have been occasions where unknown individuals have approached properties, looked through windows and knocked while children were inside completing schoolwork, which has caused significant distress and concern among residents.
“In addition the wider area has experienced repeated vandalism, including damage to premises on the High Street, a barbershop on Shorthope Street and public infrastructure including a bus stop.
“These incidents demonstrate that the area is already under pressure in terms of disorder and environmental quality.”
The application for the HMO says the property has five bedrooms which will be single occupancy with a shared living area and kitchen.
It adds that breakfast foods will be provided on a self-catering basis with a cleaner and manager attending the property regularly.
The application will be decided at a meeting of East Lothian licensing sub committee next week.
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