Hostel will sell alcohol

A CITY centre hostel has been given permission to sell alcohol to guests, despite objections from local residents.

Concerns were raised about the application by the Art Roche Hostel in West Port to sell alcohol given the proximity to a number of pubs in the area and nearby Grassmarket.

However, the council's licensing board agreed to grant permission, on condition alcohol was consumed by guests only.

Convener Marjorie Thomas said: "This has been a difficult one for the board as there have been a lot of local objections.

"The visit to the premises helped and I was very impressed with the effort that the new owners are putting into the place."