A hairdresser from North Berwick has received approval to establish a salon in her back garden, marking a new chapter in her career. Emma Combe, who has over 20 years of experience in the hair industry, plans to convert a garden room into her new workspace. This decision comes as she aims to downsize her business while providing a more tailored service to her clients.
The East Lothian planners have granted permission for the project, with the stipulation that the salon will only be used by Combe or any future owners of her property. The plans prohibit independent contractors from operating within the space, ensuring that the salon maintains a personal touch.
In her statement to the planning committee, Combe expressed her desire to create a bespoke service, noting she intends to accommodate around six clients per day. She plans to operate three days a week, taking weekends off to work on location for events such as photo shoots and weddings.
Planners assessed the proposal against national guidelines for homeworking and micro-businesses. They concluded that the scale and nature of the salon would not significantly disrupt the residential character of the area. In their approval, they stated, “The use of the erected garden room as a hairdressing salon does not, neither by its nature nor by its scale of operation, significantly change the residential character of the area.”
To ensure community harmony, the planners attached specific conditions to the approval. The salon’s operating hours will be limited to 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, and it will be operated solely by the occupants of the house. These measures aim to safeguard the residential amenity of neighboring properties.
The decision reflects a growing trend of home-based businesses, particularly in the creative and service sectors. Combe’s venture represents both a personal and professional evolution, allowing her to adapt to changing market conditions while continuing to serve her community.
As local councils increasingly support such initiatives, Emma Combe’s salon could pave the way for more home-based enterprises in North Berwick and beyond.
