Firefighters are battling a large blaze that erupted at the historic Debenhams department store building on Edinburgh's Princes Street. The alarm was raised at approximately 2:50am, and emergency services quickly responded to the scene.
Fire Details and Response
Seven fire engines and three specialist appliances remain at the scene, tackling the inferno that has engulfed the old Debenhams building, a prominent Victorian-era structure on the famous shopping street. Footage captured shows flames ripping through the building. There have been no reports of injuries.
Transport Disruption
The fire has caused significant disruption to rush hour transport services. Tram services in the area have been disrupted, with Edinburgh Trams operating a part route from Edinburgh Airport to the West End only. Ticket acceptance is in place with ScotRail between Edinburgh Gateway and Edinburgh Waverley (St Andrew Square) and on Lothian Buses between the West End and Newhaven. Several bus services have been diverted.
History of the Building
The department store previously closed at the site in April 2021 following a fire on the building's ground floor. Plans have since been introduced to convert the Victorian building into a luxury hotel. The cause of the latest fire is not yet known, and investigations are expected to follow once the blaze is under control.
