Stabilisation of the fire-damaged frontage on Princes Street will take at least three weeks, keeping this section closed while remedial works continue.

Securing the building's front façade is a priority. Structural engineers have ruled that the structure is too fragile for any vehicles, including trams, to pass even at low speeds, due to the risk to public safety.

Steel bracing is being installed to reinforce the façade. If wind conditions remain calm, vehicles could be able to pass the site in around three weeks. The programme is weather-dependent, as cranes cannot operate above safe wind limits, and the safety of operatives is paramount.

Good progress has been made at the eastern end of the building, and it is hoped the cordon on Princes Street will be reduced later this week, allowing Boots to re-open over the weekend.

It has also emerged that the original Victorian staircase and the stained-glass windows memorial to former Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, at 111-112 Princes Street, have survived relatively unscathed.

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These two key features from the 1880s will now be examined to assess whether any further work is required.

Trams continue to run from the Airport and terminate at West End (Shandwick Place), while buses are being diverted via George Street.

For detailed travel advice and updates, visit the dedicated webpage: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/princesstreetupdates.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: "Whilst I understand how concerning this news will be to everyone, I want to reiterate that we're doing everything within our power to reopen Princes Street as soon as it's safe to do so. The complexity of the remedial work cannot be understated, with specialists working, mostly by hand, under extremely challenging circumstances.

"I'm acutely aware of the impact that this is having across the city each and every day, and I'll repeat my thanks to the public for their continued patience during this incredibly difficult time. The city is very much open, and I'd encourage everyone to support our fantastic local businesses as we enter the August festival season.

"We're continuing to work alongside our partners, particularly Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses, to keep Edinburgh moving. A part-tram service and full bus services continue citywide, but please plan ahead and allow plenty of time for your journey. We've also increased the number of Voi e-bike parking locations and hires available across the city, helping people to get around easier.

"It's positive that the cordon is being reduced, and the fact that these key historical features of the site have survived is a rare silver lining in this terrible event.

"From tram and bus drivers working overtime to the engineers on site, Council colleagues and many more, I'd like to thank everyone who has been involved in the response so far.

"Despite these trying circumstances I've no doubt we can all enjoy a fantastic summer here in the world's cultural capital."