Road improvements
We’re improving the roads, pavements and drainage at Lawnmarket (between Castlehill and George IV Bridge) and Upper Bow, which includes reconstructing the existing natural stone setts. The work will improve the area for the many visitors, the condition of the road and road safety.
Work is expected to end in July 2025.
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.
11 March to May 2025
- Lawnmarket closure 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
- Suspensed eastbound no entry at the bottom of Johnston Terrace will continue and all 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 providing details of specific restrictions
- Bus services through Johnston Terrace remain diverted with details of diversions available on bus stops and on bus operator websites.
- Tour coaches are not able to use the area and from 8 April 2025, there will be new coach drop-off and pick-up areas at Castle Terrace. Download a pdf of the layout.
- Space for loading will be provided where it is safe to do so.
- Vehicle access to Castlehill is available from Johnston Terrace..
- Council waste collections will continue as normal.
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
- Pedestrian access to the area will be maintained at all times, restrictions will be placed on vehicle access. Lawnmarket will be closed to through traffic from December 2024.
- Access will be maintained at all times for emergency services vehicles.
- Temporary parking restrictions will be introduced to make sure the work is done safely, with on-street signage providing details of specific restrictions.
- Bus operators have been informed and information detailing diversion routes will be provided at bus stops and on bus operators' websites.
- Loading and servicing will continue using the current festival streets guidelines, 7pm to 10.30am daily, with access from Johnston Terrace. Outside of these times, and during later phases, access may be restricted to 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.
