Current work on Lawnmarket and Upper Bow
Lawnmarket is currently closed to traffic because of road reconstruction work, which is due to finish in July 2025.
We’re improving the roads, pavements and drainage between Castlehill and George IV Bridge, and Upper Bow. This includes reconstructing the existing natural stone setts.
The work will improve
- the area for the many visitors
- the condition of the road
- road safety.
Work will
- take place Mondays to Saturdays, typically between the hours of 7.30am and 5pm
- temporarily stop during the busy festive period to reduce disruption.
Work from 11 March to May 2025
- Lawnmarket closed on the west side with no through route for vehicles. Local access via Johnston Terrace with some access from George IV Bridge.
- No vehicle through route from Johnston Terrace to George IV Bridge until the end of the project
- Eastbound no entry at the bottom of Johnston Terrace is suspended and vehicles can access Castlehill from Johnston Terrace, but must return the same way
- Vehicle access to the east end of Lawnmarket will be available from George IV Bridge, but must return the same way
- Temporary parking restrictions will continue to make sure work is completed safely, with signs in place to show restrictions
- Bus services through Johnston Terrace are diverted with details available on bus stops and on bus operator websites
- Tour coaches are not able to use Johnston Terrace or Lawnmarket
- Space for loading will be provided where it is safe to do so
- Any vehicles that do need access to Castlehill, such as for deliveries and residents, can do so from Johnston Terrace
- Council waste collections continue as normal
Castle Terrace coach drop off and pick up area - 8 April to project end
We have installed temporary coach drop-off and pick-up areas on Castle Terrace to make sure that the area is safe for everyone. These operate from Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6.30pm and Sunday 12.30pm to 6.30pm, with a 30 minute maximum stay. Download a pdf of the layout.
We have removed the permit holder bays until the end of this project but you can continue to use your permit in other bays within zone 4. Use our interactive map to see zone 4.
With a Blue Badge you can park free of charge and without a time limit on street in Edinburgh
- in pay and display and shared use on-street parking bays
- on single or double yellow lines when loading is allowed
- in greenways parking places when parking is allowed
- in disabled parking bays.
Find out more about Blue Badge parking.
Work from May - July 2025
The road will be closed on the east side with no through route for vehicles. Local access will be via Johnston Terrace.
Access
- Anyone walking, wheeling or cycling will still be able to access the area at all times. Cyclists will need to dismount at certain points.
- Access will be maintained at all times for emergency services vehicles
- Access may be restricted for loading in certain areas. Please make sure that any suppliers and delivery companies who need access to your premises are aware of the work and current guidance
- Council waste collections will continue as normal
Further information
The large black safety barriers on Lawnmarket were permanently removed on 27 February 2025. These will be later replaced with retractable bollards on the road during the final phase of work.
Support for businesses
Outdoor signs advertise that businesses are open as usual during the work. Business Gateway ran free workshop sessions for local businesses before the road works began to help them navigate the roadworks with confidence.
More information
A council representative will be on site during the works to monitor progress and provide assistance and information to residents and businesses.
Please email us for further details or updates.
Find out about current projects to improve roads and pavements.