A spokesperson for Edinburgh World Heritage said the news about a fire on Princes Street was “deeply saddening and concerning”, and have called for the building to be retained as far as possible.
The organisation has acknowledge the sad news that the B-listed former Debenhams department store on Princes Street has been seriously damaged by fire.
The spokesperson continued: “Fire represents one of the greatest threats to our historic buildings and cultural heritage. It is imperative to stabilise and retain as much fabric as possible of this listed building. No action should be taken until an urgent investigation has taken place to look into why the fire took place and if there was adequate supervision on site.
“With over 75% of buildings in the World Heritage Site listed for their national, cultural, or architectural value, this sad event should ensure other buildings at risk are identified and owners alerted generally to take appropriate action so that our heritage assets are safeguarded for future generations.
“Princes Street still retains a very high level of historic authenticity with its surviving elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings and is recognised as making a critical contribution to the significant heritage values of the World Heritage Site.
“The visual impact of the total loss of this building on the World Heritage Site cannot be under-estimated. EWH calls for the damaged listed building to be fully restored if possible. At the very least, the façade should be retained, rebuilt, or recreated with the original materials and construction methods.
“EWH and CEC have recently commissioned a Statement of Heritage Significance for Princes Street and the Waverley Valley to guide the city’s strategy for the protection and regeneration of this world-famous shopping street.
“Its unique layout, panoramic views and high visibility from the medieval Old Town and the castle rock across the lush green gardens of Waverley Valley, create a scene of urban grandeur that is completely unique and admired worldwide.”
Guidance can be found here Short Guide 14: Fire Safety Management in Traditional Buildings for Dutyholders and Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Fire and Historic Buildings
