Scottish Government announces fire relief funds

The Scottish Government will provide fire recovery funding after blazes in Edinburgh and the Cairngorms, it has been confirmed.

A serious fire devasted the former Debenhams premises on the capital’s Princes Street one month ago, forcing an exclusion cordon affecting travel.

A wildfire which broke out in the Cairngorms days later has burned out thousands of acres of woodland and moor, affecting local communities.

Visiting the Princes Street site today with City of Edinburgh Council leader Jane Meagher, Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth said the Scottish Government would make up to £5m available to support recovery in the area.

Administered by the council, the fund will include support to make the building safe and allow the street to reopen.

Meanwhile, the government is working with Highland Council to finalise the sum for the Cairngorms.

Gilruth said: “This fire has caused widespread difficulties in Edinburgh, not just in the city centre but extending north into Leith and Newhaven, as business and commuters adjust to the disruption caused by the fire.

“The Scottish Government has been determined from the start to ensure that we are ready to support the council in assisting those affected and the funding being set out today will help to keep the city moving and to adapt, while also enabling long term recovery.

“The impact in the capital has been significant at a time when the August festivals are getting underway. The Scottish Government is committed to working urgently with partners to ensure there is the fullest possible recovery, including the reopening of Princes Street as soon as is safely possible.” 

The packages follow a £10m support pot provided for fire recovery in Glasgow city centre, following the fire that destroyed several businesses in historic buildings on Union Street in the spring.

Meagher said: “This is a significant step in our city’s recovery from the Princes Street fire, and I wholeheartedly welcome the Scottish Government’s announcement today.

“Whilst I remain acutely aware of the impact that this is having across the city every day, I hope that this news can bring some comfort to our residents, businesses and visitors. The city is very much open, and I’d encourage everyone to support our fantastic local businesses as the festivals begin later this week.

“We’re continuing to do everything within our power to reopen Princes Street as soon as it’s safe to do so. The complexity of the remedial work cannot be understated, with specialists working, mostly by hand, under extremely challenging circumstances.

“I’d also urge people to continue to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.”