Edinburgh city centre schools will shut over two days next week as thousands of mourners are set to line the streets to pay respects to Queen Elizabeth II.
The 96 year-old monarch, Britain's longest serving-serving sovereign, died at Balmoral on Thursday (September 8).
The council announced the emergency closures as part of preparations for the Queen's coffin arriving in the capital at the beginning of next week.
READ MORE: Changes to Edinburgh bin collections announced following Queen's death
It confirmed that on Monday and Tuesday (September 12 and 13) Royal Mile Primary School, Abbeyhill Primary School and Cowgate Early Years Centre will not be open.
Roads around the schools will be closed off for a procession which will take the Queen from Holyroodhouse Palace up the Royal Mile to St Giles' Cathedral.
Significant disruption is expected around the city centre where public transport and waste collection will also be impacted.
Edinburgh City Council said: "We have been advised by the Scottish Government and Police Scotland that a high number of people are expected to come to Edinburgh to pay their respects to Her Majesty The Queen.
"The Royal Mile and many surrounding roads will be closed during this period.
We have written to parents and carers and we'll provide remote learning for affected pupils."
Council leader Cammy Day said: "On behalf of the whole city of Edinburgh, I offer our heartfelt condolences to all the members of the royal family at this time of sadness and sorrow.
"Our city is highly experienced in handling major events, and we are working closely with Scottish Government, Police Scotland and transport providers to safely accommodate the large crowds of visitors who will wish to pay their respects to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family over the next few days.
"Given the scale and significance of these ceremonial events, we have to be prepared for significant disruption across the city, but particularly in the city centre. We’re closely with our partners to manage this as best we can and to keep residents, businesses and visitors updated on all plans.
"We are also urging everyone to consider their travel needs and avoid any journeys through the city centre where possible. If they do need to travel, we’re asking them to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys and follow the very latest travel advice."
READ NEXT:
- Edinburgh condolence book for Queen set-up as capital mourns monarch
- Edinburgh closures and cancellations following the death of Queen Elizabeth II
When Queen's body will arrive in Edinburgh from Balmoral as procession planned
Queen Elizabeth II: Edinburgh Council close major roads as monarch to arrive in capital
- Edinburgh locals flock to Holyrood Palace to pay their respects to 'special' Queen
