Princes Street reopens in Edinburgh after seven-week fire closure

Princes Street in Edinburgh has reopened to pedestrians, cyclists, buses, and trams following a seven-week closure. The thoroughfare was shut on July 9 after a major fire at the former Debenhams building.

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher stated the reopening occurred ahead of schedule, noting that specialist engineers had to remove stonework and debris largely by hand to ensure public safety. The closure had caused significant disruption to transport and local businesses, particularly during the preparations for the city's arts festival.

Local market traders at the nearby Castle Street Market expressed optimism regarding a potential increase in footfall. Business owners reported a drop in customers during the closure due to limited bus access, but they anticipate a busier period now that full Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams services have resumed.