Firefighters fled to Princes Street at 2:50am on Thursday morning (July 9), as a disused building, which used to be the old Debenhams, caught fire. Passers-by witnessed large flames coming from the top two floors of the building, while the flames were being brought under control. As it stands now, investigations are still being conducted by the police, but no one was injured.
Now, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they are dampening down the spots. What is more, Princes Street, Frederick Street and Castle Street are closed, and people are urged to avoid the area.
Trams are also currently running between the West End and Edinburgh Airport only, and ScotRail is accepting tram tickets between Edinburgh Gateway and Edinburgh Waverley stations.
If you have to travel through Princes Street on a bus, check for the diversions before travelling.
A spokesperson for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said: “We were called at 2.52am on Thursday, 9 July, to reports of a fire within a former department store building on Princes Street, Edinburgh.
“Operations Control mobilised six appliances and two height appliances plus supporting resources to the scene and firefighters worked through the early hours of the morning the contain and extinguish the flames.
“Crews continue to extinguish and dampen down hotspots and will be in attendance for some time. Drivers and pedestrians are advised to avoid the area and road closures are in place. There are no reported casualties.”
Lothian Buses spokesperson said: “Due to a road closure buses are unable to serve Princes Street and are instead diverted via South Charlotte Street, George Street and South St David Street in both directions until further notice.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Road closures are in place following a fire at a disused building on Princes Street, Edinburgh.
“Officers were called to assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue around 3.05am on Thursday, July 9, 2026. There are no reported injuries.
“Princes Street, Frederick Street and Castle Street remain closed and members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible at this time.
“Emergency services remain in attendance and enquiries are ongoing.”
