Statement on Edinburgh fires

22 December 2008

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said: “This was a major fire in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town and the fire services have done a fantastic job in protecting the public and containing the blaze within the shell of the damaged building. Victoria Street is a key setpiece in the Edinburgh World Heritage Site. The restaurant was housed in a B-listed building, a 19th Century church converted many years ago to commercial use. Historic Scotland will work closely with Edinburgh City Council to assess the situation and to advise on the way forward for this important site. The fire in Frederick Street, in the New Town has also damaged a small part of the extensive World Heritage Site. Again, Historic Scotland will discuss the situation with Edinburgh City Council.”