Firefighters are battling a significant blaze at the former Debenhams building on Princes Street in Edinburgh, with emergency services called to the scene at 2:52 a.m. on Thursday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that seven fire engines and three specialist appliances were deployed as of 6:45 a.m.
Response and Impact
Social media images showed flames and thick plumes of smoke rising from the building. No injuries have been reported. The fire has disrupted transport services, with Edinburgh Trams operating only between the airport and the West End. 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. Lothian Buses also reported diversions on some routes.
Ongoing Situation
Fire crews remain at the scene, and the cause of the blaze is under investigation. Authorities advise avoiding the area and checking for service updates.
