Fire ravaged building on Princes Street deemed 'not safe' for emergency crew to enter, warn police
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Police Scotland has renewed its advice to “avoid the area” with the fire-hit building deemed “not safe to enter”
Police Scotland has issued an update urging the public to continue to avoid the area around a fire-hit building on Princes Street.
Police said that emergency services remain in attendance following a fire at a disused building, formerly occupied by department store Debenhams, in the city centre.
The force said officers were called to assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue around 3.05am on Thursday, 9 July. There are no reported injuries.
A spokesperson said: “Firefighters and officers cannot enter the building as, at this time, it is deemed not safe to enter. Work is ongoing to ensure the area is made safe and enquiries are at an early stage.”
Whilst advising members of the public to avoid the area, the police force also urged people to keep windows and doors closed where possible.
Firefighters and officers cannot enter the building as, at this time, it is deemed not safe to enter
Police Scotland also confirmed that a joint investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
Earlier, it was confirmed that firefighters will remain at the site for “quite a considerable time”. Deputy assistant chief officer Willie Pollard added that the fire had been brought “well under control”.
He said: “The fire has been put well under control. At the minute we’re dampening down any hot spots or any residual burning that may be in the building.
“The fire has been quite significant, as you can see, and we will be in attendance for quite a considerable time moving forward.
“And we understand the disruption that will have to the local community.”
The surrounding area of Princes Street remains closed, along with Rose Street, Frederick Street and Castle Street.
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