After seven long weeks Edinburgh Trams services have returned to the full route following the reopening of Princes Street. Services to Newhaven resumed on Saturday 29th August (as had been planned with testing overnight having been a success) and a full timetable is now in operation, providing relief for many businesses at the northern end of the route.
As you will no doubt all remember services were suspended along Princes Street from 9th July 2026 after a major fire broke out in the former Debenhams store. With this located right next to the tramway and significant structural damage having been caused by the fire it was not safe to allow any trams (or indeed any other traffic) from passing the site.
Although it was looked at to see whether some trams could be transported to the other side of the tramway that proved not to be possible and so ever since 9th July the only tram services which had been running were those from Airport to West End. The standard ticket acceptance on local bus services (also subject to diversions of course) was in place for anyone wishing to travel any further.
The end of August had been a target date for a while and it was achieved when services resumed at the start of Saturday 29th August, providing a welcome relief to many who have come to rely on the trams.
A sight for sore eyes – trams back on Leith Walk! 257 approaches McDonald Road on the first day back with a Newhaven to Airport service.
267 is between the McDonald Road and Picardy Place tramstops in this view with Elm Row to the left and Gayfield Square to the right.
Princes Street had been the first stop closed as a result of the fire. Now reopened we see 268 calling as it heads back to the Airport.
There remains only one open eastbound lane with pedestrians having to pass the site of the fire on the second carriageway currently. This means trams and buses are sharing the same lane which may lead to extended delays.
267 passes the site of the fire. This view shows how they have secured the façade of the building to make it safe.
277 for Airport on Princes Street. The location of the fire is just to right of nearest lamp standard/traction pole. (All Photographs by Roy Calderwood, 29th August 2026)