Edinburgh’s public transport network is set for continued disruption as authorities conduct an extensive investigation into a major fire at the former Debenhams department store on Princes Street. The blaze, which occurred last week, has necessitated significant rerouting of bus services and a reduced tram network, posing challenges for commuters and businesses in the city centre.
Lothian Buses has rerouted services from Princes Street to George Street, while Edinburgh Trams are currently operating a limited route between the West End and the airport. Lothian Buses described the situation as “fluid,” indicating no definitive timeline for the full resumption of normal services.
Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are actively investigating the cause of the fire. Access for fire investigation unit officers was initially delayed due to structural safety concerns regarding the B-listed building.
City of Edinburgh Council leader, Jane Meagher, cautioned the public about the inevitable impact on travel:
“We will reopen Princes Street as soon as it’s safe to do so but, with investigations ongoing at the site, it’s too early to say when that will be. This is one of our main thoroughfares, so I’m afraid it’s inevitable that its ongoing closure will lead to travel and other disruption in the city centre. We’re doing everything we can to keep the city moving and are working closely with our bus and tram colleagues to keep delays to a minimum. We also recognise the effect this is having on city centre businesses and have been in touch with them to offer our support.”
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Willie Hamilton, Chief Operating Officer for Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, highlighted the operational difficulties. “Princes Street is right at the heart of Edinburgh’s public transport network, so any closure has a huge impact. We are involved in discussions on a daily basis and I would urge anybody, when they are travelling, to check in advance. It is a fluid situation and it will be changing, sometimes hour to hour.” Hamilton also acknowledged the potential ramifications for the upcoming festival season, which typically sees additional road closures, including on George Street in August.
At its peak, approximately 50 firefighters tackled the extensive flames that engulfed the building in the early hours of Thursday. Images from the scene reveal the roof was completely destroyed, with other sections suffering severe damage.
The affected building, formerly a Debenhams department store, closed in May 2021 following a separate fire the preceding month. River Island and Levi’s, which had ground-floor retail units, have also ceased operations at the site. The property was in the process of being converted into Scotland’s inaugural Zedwell hotel by real estate firm Criterion Capital, owned by billionaire Asif Aziz. A planning application for a temporary facade, intended to conceal construction work, was lodged in March.
