Princes Street to stay closed for at least three more weeks after historic building fire
Last updated 29th Jul 2026
Part of Princes Street is expected to remain closed for at least another three weeks following the fire which tore through a historic department store building earlier this month.
The blaze broke out in the early hours of 9 July, with seven fire engines and three specialist appliances sent to tackle the flames.
Edinburgh City Council says structural engineers have concluded the building remains too unstable for vehicles, including trams, to pass while work continues to secure the front facade.
Steel supports are being installed to reinforce the building and, once they're in place, vehicles will be able to pass safely. The work is weather dependent, with cranes unable to operate in high winds.
The council hopes to reduce the safety cordon later this week, allowing Boots to reopen over the weekend.
It also says the building's original Victorian staircase and stained-glass windows commemorating former Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli have survived with relatively little damage and will now be assessed.
Trams will continue terminating at West End, while buses remain diverted via George Street.
Transport and Environment Convener Stephen Jenkinson thanked the public for their patience, saying the city remains open for business as Edinburgh prepares for the festival season.