Fire Wirral badly damaged the disused old Debenhams building on Edinburgh's Princes Street after firefighters were sent there at about 02:50. William Pollard said the blaze had been quite significant, and crews stayed on scene while roads and tram services were disrupted across the centre of Edinburgh.
Pollard, the Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, said: “The fire has been quite significant, and we will be in attendance for quite a considerable time moving forward.” He added: “I’d like to take the opportunity to really thank our crews because they’ve worked tirelessly through the morning in order to bring this fire under control and get to the position we are in at the minute.”
Princes Street and Rose Street closures
Extensive damage was visible on the upper floors and roof of the building, which had been disused. Police Scotland said emergency services could not go inside because it was not safe to enter, leaving crews to work around the outside and continue damping down hot spots through the day. Six appliances, two height appliances and supporting resources were sent to the scene.
Princes Street, Rose Street and Rose Street South Lane remained closed, while Frederick Street, Castle Street and Rose Street North Lane reopened at about 20:30. Edinburgh Trams services were running part route from Edinburgh Airport to West End only, and tickets were accepted by ScotRail between Edinburgh Gateway and Edinburgh Waverley and on Lothian bus services between West End and Newhaven.
River Island and Levi's units
Jane Meagher, leader of Edinburgh City Council, said she was relieved nobody had been hurt. She added: “I’m relieved to hear that nobody has been hurt, and grateful for the swift response of the emergency services - who prevented this devastating fire becoming far worse.” River Island and Levi's both had shops on the ground floor of the building, and both units closed after the fire.
William Pollard said crews would remain at the scene for some time to dampen down hot spots, and the cause of the fire was still being investigated. For people travelling through Princes Street, the practical position is simple: the central closure and tram disruption mean detours and route changes are still shaping the journey through Edinburgh.
