Fire crews are expected to remain on Edinburgh's Princes Street for "quite a considerable time" after a blaze gutted the historic former Debenhams department store. The fire broke out in the early hours of Thursday, causing significant damage to the B-listed building.
Fire under control but hotspots remain
Deputy assistant chief officer Willie Pollard of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze was "well under control" by Thursday afternoon, but crews were still dampening down hotspots. "The fire has been quite significant, as you can see, and we will be in attendance for quite a considerable time moving forward," he told media on Princes Street. "We understand the disruption that will have to the local community."
The roof and top floors of the disused building have been destroyed, leaving the interior blackened and charred. Pollard advised nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed. An investigation involving Police Scotland is under way.
Emergency response and disruption
Emergency services were called to the scene at 2.52am on Thursday. At the height of the incident, seven fire engines and three specialist appliances attended. There were no reports of injuries. Large parts of Princes Street have been cordoned off, causing traffic disruption. Tram services are running only between Edinburgh Airport and the West End, with ticket acceptance on ScotRail and Lothian Buses. Some bus services have been diverted.
Historic building damaged
The building at 109 Princes Street dates back to 1869 and was originally the Palace Hotel. The Debenhams branch closed in May 2021 after a previous fire. It was acquired by Criterion Capital, which had planned to turn it into its first Zedwell hotel in Scotland. A Criterion Capital spokesperson said: "In respect of the fire at the former Debenhams building on Princes Street, Edinburgh, in the early hours of this morning, our immediate priority is the safety of everyone involved. There have been no reported injuries, and we are very grateful to the emergency services for their swift response and professionalism."
Public reaction
Passers-by expressed sadness. Robert Murphy, 72, a former worker at a nearby shop, called the potential loss a "tragedy," adding: "The building was just really nice. It was on the same lines as Jenners. They seem to be getting replaced with concrete and glass – cheaper-looking buildings." Graham Reed, 59, from Edinburgh, said: "It's an iconic building, and it's such a shame that yet another one's gone up in flames on Princes Street." Another man, Sotirs, 36, said: "I feel sad because it looks like a classic building... it's a nice building."
Council response
Council leader Jane Meagher said: "I'm relieved to hear that nobody has been hurt, and grateful for the swift response of the emergency services who prevented this devastating fire becoming far worse. Once the area has been made safe, we will fully assess the condition of the building and consider next steps." She urged people to avoid the area and follow advice from emergency services and transport operators.
