The City of Edinburgh Council leader met with Deputy First Minister, Jenny Gilruth on Wednesday 5 August as a package of £5 million funding was announced.
The two political leaders met in the street outside 109 Princes Street where a major fire caused devastation in the early hours of 9 July.
The street opposite has remained closed to pedestrians and vehicular traffic since, causing congestion on George Street where many of the bus services are diverted, and a knock on effect on businesses in Leith as the tram has not travelled past the West End since the blaze.
What is the money to be used for and how will it be spent?
The fund will be spent by the council under separate headings:
- Building Works – it is the responsibility of the council to make the building safe, to retain the heritage features of the A-listed property and to pay for security around the site during the early days. The council will also recover appropriate costs under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 from the owners of the building.
- Business Recovery – Businesses in Leith and the north of Edinburgh have suffered as a result of the tram closure. People will be encouraged to visit businesses in these areas with a local events fund and voucher scheme.
- Festivals support – Assembly had to relocate their George Street festival area to St Andrew Square and the costs of that move will be supported. Producers say that ticket sales have been impacted.
- Public Transport Support – Edinburgh Trams ticket sales have been impacted as half the line is closed.This section of funding will support the business and the council.
- Princes Street Dressing – While works progress any vacant sites will be covered up to “maintain a positive image for Princes Street”.
- Getting Around Communications Campaign – Digital and physical advertising will support the campaign to help everyone get around the city while there are diversions.
For the latest advice and updates on Princes Street please visit the Council’s webpage.
