Additional reporting by Brogan Howie.
Hundreds of students were evacuated today after a fire at the Merchiston Campus of Edinburgh Napier University.
The fire apparently started in the basement of the campus and then spread quickly.
Initially, Merchiston Campus was only to be closed until 1.30pm today but the university has now decided it will stay closed for longer.
The University used social media to get the message out.
The Merchiston Campus will remain closed for the rest of today as a result of the small fire, smoke and water damage.
— Edinburgh Napier Uni (@EdinburghNapier) April 8, 2014
@gazwilliamson The JKCC will also remain closed for the rest of the day. We hope to reopen tomorrow but but will advise later tonight.
— Edinburgh Napier Uni (@EdinburghNapier) April 8, 2014
@CiaranKearney1 Unfortunately the campus will remain closed for the rest of today. We hope to reopen tomorrow but will advise later tonight
— Edinburgh Napier Uni (@EdinburghNapier) April 8, 2014
It quickly became evident that the fire had caused more damage than originally thought.
The reason behind the extended closure is some fire and water damage to the building.
Many students are distressed over the recent turn of events due to upcoming exams and deadlines. Napier Student, Jack Nicholson, 19, stated: “I was just about to submit my coursework when the alarm went off.
“I wasn’t that worried due to the campus re-opening at 1.30pm but the story keeps changing and I’m worried.”
Students affected by the fire in relation to deadlines should read this tweet here:-
Those with coursework and exams affected should read the extenuating circumstances guidelines
— Edinburgh Napier Uni (@EdinburghNapier) April 8, 2014
@j_figueiraII if you feel you have been affected then please see the extenuating circumstances guidelines [Login] https://t.co/ZJs8QwkZdX
— Edinburgh Napier Uni (@EdinburghNapier) April 8, 2014
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