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Edinburgh Princes Street Fire Damages Former Debenhams Building

Firefighters brought the blaze under control as police closed nearby streets and transport operators diverted services, with no injuries reported.

  • On Thursday, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed seven fire engines and three special units to a major blaze at 109 Princes Street in Edinburgh at 2.52am, with no reported injuries.
  • Built in 1869 as the Palace Hotel, the damaged property was purchased by Criterion Capital in July 2024 to open its first Zedwell hotel in Scotland, following failed redevelopment plans.
  • Edinburgh Trams confirmed services operate a "Part Route from Edinburgh Airport- West End only," while Lothian Buses diverted services via George Street, South Charlotte Street, and South St David Street.
  • Police Scotland erected cordons at Princes Street, Frederick Street, and Castle Street, urging the public to avoid the area as inquiries into the fire's cause remain ongoing.
  • By 08:00, firefighters appeared to have brought the blaze under control, leaving the upper floors and roof with extensive damage while height appliances continued dampening the site.
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GB News broke the news in London, United Kingdom on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
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