Edinburgh faces second day of disruption after Princes Street fire

Edinburgh is facing a second day of disruption after a fire gutted a historic building.

The building at the site of the old Debenhams department store suffered “significant damage” in the fire, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday.

The roof and top floors of the disused B-listed building have been destroyed, with the rest of the structure left blackened and charred on the inside.

One fire engine remained at the scene on Friday morning dampening down any hotpots.

Castle Street, Frederick Street and Rose Street North Lane were reopened at approximately 8.30pm on Thursday but the surrounding area of Princes Street remained closed, along with Rose Street and Rose Street South Lane.

As a result, tram services in the area and some bus services are continuing to face disruptions and diversions into Friday.

Lothian Buses said that due to a road closure, buses are unable to serve Shandwick Place, Princes Street and Waterloo Place and are instead diverted via Morrison Link, West Approach Road and terminating at the Exchange until further notice.

Edinburgh Trams said trams are running a part route from Edinburgh Airport to the West End only.

It said ticket acceptance is in place with ScotRail between Edinburgh Gateway and Edinburgh Park to Edinburgh Waverley (St Andrew Square) and on Lothian Buses between the West End and Newhaven.

Police Scotland said on Thursday night that firefighters and officers could not go into the building because it is deemed not safe to enter.

Work is ongoing to ensure the area is made safe and inquiries are at an early stage.

Members of the public were advised to continue avoiding the area and to keep windows and doors closed where possible.

Police said a joint investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.