Lawnmarket

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

Phase 4 work - until end of July 2025

• Road closure of the east side of Lawnmarket with no through route for vehicles
• Local access will be via Johnston Terrace
• There will be no vehicle access from George IV Bridge

Ongoing restrictions

• 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
• 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

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.

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 later as part of 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.