Crowds are expected as the procession travels from the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Airport
People are expected to gather in large numbers in Edinburgh on Tuesday to pay their last respects to Her Majesty The Queen.
After lying in repose, the coffin will be transported from St Giles Cathedral to Edinburgh Airport.
People are asked to work from home if they can, and those who do not wish to pay their respects in person are asked to avoid any non-essential travel.
There will be significant travel disruption along the Queen’s Coffin Route with multiple road closures from 1pm. Some schools in Edinburgh will also be affected and close early. The latest traffic and school information can be found on the City of Edinburgh Council website.
The route the Queen’s motorcade will travel means the following roads will be closed between 4pm and 6.30pm:
- Johnstone Terrace
- Lothian Road
- Queensferry Road
- Dean’s Bridge
- Queensferry Road
In addition to the roads on the route, there will be extensive closures and diversions of neighboring roads, including all intersections. This will have a significant impact on surrounding major roads, including the M8 and the Edinburgh City Bypass.
The Scottish Government is working with Edinburgh City Council, Transport Scotland, Police Scotland, ScotRail and other partners to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, however long delays are expected.
First Deputy Minister John Swinney said:
“This will be an extremely busy time in Edinburgh as members of the public come to pay their last respects. In light of this, we respectfully ask people to avoid non-essential travel if possible.
“Those wishing to line the route should plan ahead taking into account local road closures, allowing for extra time and limited facilities. Be prepared for long periods of standing and large crowds. Check the weather before you leave and bring water.
“Travel information can be found on the Traffic Scotland, Traveline Scotland, City of Edinburgh, Lothian Buses, Edinburgh Tram and ScotRail websites and social media channels. We are encouraging everyone to check the latest information before finalizing their travel plans.”
Background
The coffin procession will leave St Giles Cathedral for Edinburgh Airport at 5pm.
Those wishing to attend are urged to do so safely, plan ahead and allow extra time, taking into account local and central city road closures, weather conditions, limited facilities, crowded streets and very busy public transport, and the likelihood of spending many hours on the side of the road.
A significant number of stewards are being drafted in, along with police officers, to help keep the public safe. Stewards will provide route advice from car parks, identified crossing points and safe viewing areas.
People are being urged to consider whether their travel is absolutely necessary and to work from home if possible. If travel is necessary, please allow extra time and if possible cycle, use alternative routes or travel at a different time.
Travel information:
There will be road closures along the way. Other roads in the area are expected to be significantly affected as large numbers of people from across Scotland and further afield come to pay their respects.
Those coming to the area by car should review and look at using one of the seven park and rides to take a bus or train into town. Allow plenty of time to travel and park within designated areas. Please try to share lifts with friends, family and neighbors wherever possible.
For up-to-date information, including road and school closures across Edinburgh, visit: Road closures and public transport information – City of Edinburgh Council
For up-to-date travel information and other updates, visit the dedicated Traffic Scotland page.
of @edintravel The traffic information team will be closely monitoring the city’s roads, sharing the latest information on disruptions and diversions on Twitter.
The following websites can also be used to keep informed about transport services: Lothian Buses, Edinburgh Trams and ScotRail.
Security:
People intending to see the Queen’s motorcade should not leave their vehicle on the side of the road as this poses a risk to public safety. Parking is only allowed in designated areas and instructions from stewards and police officers must be followed.
People are asked not to stand in any unsafe areas and stay off the carriageway at all times.
Drivers should park only where it is safe to do so and respect the needs of residents and businesses to access their premises.
For safety reasons, do not throw flowers on the street or towards the procession.
Please note that before and after vehicle movement the route remains open and fully functional and normal safety processes are in place.
