Joe Sullivan

Heritage organisations in Edinburgh urged preservation of the remaining street-facing façade of the fire-damaged former Debenhams building on Princes Street. The blaze severely damaged the B‑listed property, which was undergoing redevelopment into a Zedwell hotel owned by Criterion Capital. Edinburgh World Heritage and the Cockburn Association called for restoration of the historic exterior, warning of its importance to the streetscape and the wider heritage site. Local officials stated that responsibility for site safety lies with the owners and contractors, with further action pending investigation results.