Princes Street off limits for fireworks

Published on Saturday 22 August 2009 11:13

NON-PAYING spectators hoping to catch a glimpse of this year's Bank of Scotland Fireworks Concert will have to go as far afield as Inverleith Park after councillors warned people not to go near Princes Street.

There will be no viewing areas on Princes Street due to the tram works, so the council has put in place "enhanced viewing facilities" in Inverleith Park, nearly two miles away.

Closer "enhanced" facilities will also be at Calton Hil.

Members of the public are being advised only to come to Princes Street if they have a ticket to the Bank of Scotland Fireworks Concert in Princes Street Gardens or the Ross Theatre and Bandstand.

Council leader Jenny Dawe said: "The fireworks concert is always a hugely popular climax to our festival season, and we know that a great many people look forward to watching the event with their friends and families.

"It is vital that we ensure that everyone can enjoy the occasion as safely as possible. While it is unfortunately not viable on the grounds of public safety to allow viewing areas on Princes Street this year, Inverleith Park and Calton Hill are spacious alternative areas commanding splendid views of Edinburgh Castle."

The concert takes place on 6 September.