A section of Princes Street in Edinburgh will remain shut for the foreseeable future following a devastating fire in the disused former Debenhams building, Police Scotland has said. The blaze on July 9 caused extensive damage to the historic structure, leading to the closure of the thoroughfare between Frederick Street and South Charlotte Street to both vehicles and pedestrians. Rose Street South Lane is also closed.
No Injuries, Investigation Underway
No-one was injured in the fire, but the cause remains under investigation. Police Scotland Inspector Stephen Quinn stated: “We are aware of the impact this disruption has caused to the area, including local businesses and transport. Public safety is our priority and we are working with partners to ensure normality can be restored as soon as possible.” He urged the public to plan ahead and check travel information, especially for events in the city.
Support for Businesses and Alternative Routes
Edinburgh City Council is providing support to affected businesses, and it is hoped all Rose Street businesses can fully reopen on Saturday. Council leader Jane Meagher has written to the First Minister requesting additional support while work to make the building safe continues. Meagher noted: “There is no doubt that recent events on Princes Street continue to have a major impact on the city centre and beyond, but I’m pleased to see progress being made, both in terms of preserving and making the building safe and reducing disruption in the area.”
She thanked council teams and partners for their efforts, particularly Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams for their swift responses. The top floors and roof of the building collapsed during the fire. Meagher stressed that the tram route restoration can only happen when safe. The council is in contact with festival organizers to limit disruption; an alternative route for the Edinburgh Festival Carnival has been found. Alternative locations for events displaced from George Street are being explored.
Ongoing Closure and Public Advice
Meagher emphasized: “This road closure is essential to protect the public while experts assess the condition of the fire-damaged building and make it safe, but we’re letting everyone know that the city centre is very much still open for business.” She has written to the First Minister for support similar to that provided after the Union Street fire in Glasgow. The public is advised to check the council website for travel advice and visiting information.
