| Princes Street fire |
| Words: Curio | |
| Friday, 03 August 2007 | |
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Princes Street is currently closed to traffic as emergency crews deal with a major fire at a store.
The fire was reported at kilt and tartan specialists in Princes Street at 0645 BST. Romanes and Paterson is a household name selling kilts, tartan items, knitwear, cashmere, Highland dress, Scottish souvenirs, whisky and shortbread. Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said it sent five pumps and three appliances. A fire investigations team was also at the scene and was attempting to discover the cause of the blaze and described the blaze as "very seriousî". No-one was hurt in the blaze, which broke out on the third floor of the five storey shop. Princes Street is one of the UK's busiest shopping streets and many shops were prevented by police from opening. Access to shops and businesses close to the Romane and Patersons are still closed and have not been told when they can re-open. The shop manager of The Works, the business next door to the fire said: "I canít get into my shop. We just have to wait. I donít think they'll be opening Princes Street for a while. Its such a shame as the Romanes and Patersons is a lovely building." 
There was chaos between shop keepers as the police were accused of sending out mixed messages regarding whether it was safe to reopen. Karen McQueen, supervisor at Clinton Cards, Princes Street said: "Our shut has been shut since the start of the day. The Police didnít know what was happening." They have since been told by police they can open for business. The National Gallery of Scotland on Princes Street launches its Andy Warhol exhibition tomorrow. A spokesperson from the museum confirmed : "The fire will not affect us opening tomorrow, and it is business as usual" A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Police said Princes Street would be closed in part until further notice. |
