Road improvements
We’re improving the roads, pavements and drainage at Lawnmarket (between Castlehill and George IV Bridge) and Upper Bow, which includes the reconstruction of the existing natural stone setts. The work will improve walking and road conditions and enhance road safety.
Phases
Work is due to start on 23 September 2024 and is expected to end in July 2025. It will be done in four phases, with each phase completed consecutively.
Work will
- take place Mondays to Saturdays, typically between the hours of 7.30am and 5pm
- temporarily stop during the busy festive period to minimise disruption.
Phase 1, 23 September - December 2024
Upper Bow - full length. Upper Bow will be closed. The Lawnmarket will continue to operate eastbound only.
Phase 2, December 2024 - February 2025
Lawnmarket - roundabout area. Road closed at the roundabout area with no through route for vehicles. Access may still be available from George IV Bridge. Deliveries to Castlehill will be via Ramsay Lane.
Phase 3, March - April 2025
Road closure of the eastern half with no through route for vehicles. Local accesss to the western half and Castlehill can be obtained via Johnston Terrace.
Phase 4, May - July 2025
Road closure of the Western half with no through route for vehicles. Local access via Johnston Terrace - some access may be available from George IV Bridge.
Access
Pedestrian access to the area will be maintained at all times, restrictions will be placed on vehicle access. Eastbound traffic will be maintained during phase 1, but 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. During phase 1 no changes to the current bus services are expected.
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.
Support for businesses
Outdoor signage will be displayed to advertise that businesses are open as usual during the work.
Business Gateway is running two free workshop sessions to help local businesses navigate the upcoming roadworks with confidence.
The free online and in-person sessions are designed to equip businesses with practical strategies to minimise disruption to their business and keep your customers visiting. Please sign up to attend a session.
In person event
23 September, 6pm - 8pm
Find out more and sign up for this event.
Online event
8 October, 6pm - 8pm
Find out more and sign up for this event.
Further 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.
