Published on
October 18, 2025
(This Is An AI Generated Photo)
Edinburgh’s travel team has released its latest update on roadworks, road closures, and events across the city that may affect local traffic. As the capital prepares for a busy autumn, various works and events are expected to create significant disruptions. Travelers, businesses, and tourists are urged to stay informed about the upcoming changes, as road closures, diversions, and utility works could impact daily commuting and sightseeing plans.
Here’s what you can expect over the coming days, from a Support Palestine parade on 18 October to significant utility works throughout the city.
Key Traffic Changes: Events and Roadworks Across Edinburgh18 October: Support Palestine Parade Causes Rolling Road Closures
On 18 October 2025, Edinburgh will host a Support Palestine parade that will lead to rolling road closures in some of the city’s most iconic streets between 1pm and 3pm. The parade will start at The Mound, passing through Bank Street, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate, New Street, and concluding at Sibbald Walk.
These closures will affect key city areas, and pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists are advised to plan ahead, as access to popular spots in the city centre will be restricted during the event. For those planning to use public transport, delays are expected, particularly on buses that follow the affected routes.
20 October: Castle Terrace Road Closure for Crane Lift
On 20 October, Castle Terrace at Cornwall Street will be closed due to a crane lift. This temporary closure is expected to cause traffic disruptions in the city centre, especially for drivers heading to Edinburgh Castle or through the Old Town. Passengers and commuters should consider alternate routes and allow extra time for travel.
22-23 October: North Bridge Closure for Maintenance
North Bridge, a key route connecting Edinburgh’s Old Town with the New Town, will be closed from 22 October to 23 October. The closure, due to ongoing maintenance work, is expected to cause significant delays. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists traveling through this area should anticipate diversions and increased traffic on surrounding routes. Local businesses near the bridge may also be affected by the slower foot traffic.
Utility and Infrastructure Work: Ongoing Projects Across the CityHaymarket Terrace Delayed Work
Utility company Scottish Water has been working on various streets around Edinburgh, including Haymarket Terrace, which has seen delays in its planned works. Originally scheduled to finish by 5 October 2025, the completion date has now been pushed back to spring 2026. While this will not affect travel in the immediate term, the ongoing works may cause minor disruptions in the area, especially for pedestrians and local businesses.
Silverknowes Road Resurfacing Extended
The ongoing resurfacing of Silverknowes Road, located between Silverknowes Parkway and Marine Drive, was initially scheduled to be completed by 5 October 2025 but has now been extended until 26 October 2025. The delays are due to the identification of additional work that needed to be completed. Local residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged construction, but the work is necessary to ensure safer road conditions in the future.
31 October: Coates Place Closed for Repairs
On 31 October, Coates Place will be closed to traffic from midnight to 4:30am. The closure is part of maintenance work scheduled by Bilfinger, which requires access to the area. Those traveling late at night should be aware of this temporary closure and plan alternate routes to avoid delays.
How These Changes Impact Local Businesses and Tourism
Businesses in Edinburgh—particularly those located near popular tourist attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, and the Old Town—will be impacted by the rolling road closures and diversions. The Support Palestine parade will attract crowds and disrupt access to key areas, but local businesses along the parade route may also see an increase in foot traffic, particularly if they are in the parade’s vicinity.
For tourists, some of the most significant disruptions will be near North Bridge and Castle Terrace, which serve as key points for sightseeing and transportation. Visitors heading to Edinburgh Castle or exploring the Royal Mile may face delays, so they should consider adjusting their travel plans accordingly.
Additionally, the delays in utility works, such as the resurfacing of Silverknowes Road, may lead to temporary inconvenience for tourists using local transport or taxis to reach certain destinations.
Quick Tips for Travelers and Locals
- Check for Updates: Stay updated on traffic changes and events via official Edinburgh City Council channels, such as Twitter @EdinTravel, and the Scottish Roadworks Register for real-time information.
- Allow Extra Time: With ongoing works and closures, it’s important to allow extra time for your commute, especially when traveling during peak hours.
- Use Alternative Routes: If traveling to the city centre, consider using alternate routes to avoid congestion caused by roadworks or closures.
- Public Transport Alternatives: For those relying on public transport, bus services may be delayed, so make sure to check for updated schedules or consider walking if nearby.
- Support Local Businesses: If your journey is affected by closures, take the opportunity to explore some of Edinburgh’s charming local shops and cafes while waiting for the traffic to clear.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Plan Ahead to Avoid Travel Disruptions
The Edinburgh travel team’s updates serve as an essential guide for locals and visitors to navigate the ongoing roadworks and events across the city. While some disruptions, such as the parade on 18 October and the road closures at North Bridge and Castle Terrace, are unavoidable, staying informed and planning ahead can help minimize the inconvenience. For tourists, adjusting your travel schedule to avoid affected areas and taking alternative routes will ensure a smoother experience while enjoying the historic sites of Edinburgh. As always, knowing the latest updates and checking travel resources will make your time in the city more enjoyable and stress-free.
