Police in Edinburgh have told members of the public to avoid travelling within the city centre unless absolutely necessary, as well as advising employees to work from home for the next 48 hours.
Due to the Queen's procession and ceremony at St Giles' Cathedral on Monday, several roads in and around the city centre have been closed. Police were also refusing people access to the Royal Mile shortly before the procession left the Palace of Holyroodhouse, due to the street 'being at capacity'.
Police Scotland have now issued advice ahead of the Queen's coffin being transported to Edinburgh Airport on Tuesday, saying that major disruption is expected and they are working closely with Edinburgh Council, The Scottish Government and ScotRail to keep this to a minimum, although lengthy delays are to be expected.
You can find all the latest on the Queen's procession in Edinburgh on our LIVE blog here.
Traffic Scotland Operator Manager Stein Connolly said: “Monday and Tuesday will be extremely busy for Edinburgh, the City Bypass, and the surrounding network, due to a series of road closures and the sheer volume of people expected to line the streets.
"We want to strike a balance and ensure those who wish to pay their respects can do so safely. If you can work from home we would strongly encourage you to do so. Please consider your need to travel if you are not attending any of the advertised events.
“If you do plan to pay respects in person, please allow extra time for your journey and leave the car at home. Consider public transport options, or if you need to use a car, think about car sharing and using park and ride facilities where possible. On arrival, be prepared for long periods of standing. Bring water and dress for the weather. Most importantly – let’s look out for each other.
“Please continue to check Traffic Scotland and Traveline Scotland, Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Tram websites – as well as @edintravel and @ScotRail social channels for updates before finalising your travel plans.”
Lothian Buses also released information on their social media channels on Monday afternoon, saying that some services are running two-hours behind schedule and others may not be running at all.
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Tuesday’s events will be of an unprecedented scale, even for our Capital City, so I’m really proud that Edinburgh’s playing such a significant role in these ceremonial events with the eyes of the world are on us.
“Thousands of people lined the Royal Mile to hear the proclamation of the new King and we’ll continue to work closely with Scottish Government, Police Scotland and transport providers to manage disruption and safely accommodate the large numbers of visitors who will wish to pay their respects on Tuesday.
“We’re reminding everyone to consider their travel needs and avoid any non-essential travel throughout the day. For those who choose to try and attend events, please be aware that you may need to sit or stand for a number of hours so dress for the weather and with limited facilities, we recommend that you prepare accordingly.”
Latest travel information is available below:
READ NEXT-
Die-hard Edinburgh royal fans line up with chairs hours before Queen's procession
Experts share what Meghan Markle appeared to say while reading Queen's tributes
Edinburgh Queen's procession - coffin route, road closures, traffic and weather
King Charles III to arrive in Edinburgh ahead of Queen's coffin procession to St Giles
Daniel Craig reflects on 'incredible' 007 comedy sketch with Queen Elizabeth II
