The council said the building’s “fragile state” meant it was not safe for vehicles or trams to pass, even at low speeds.

Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams said suggestions that some trams could be transported by road to Leith to run between Newhaven and York Place were “not considered a practical option”.

A cordon around the B-listed 19th century building was reduced on Friday to allow the reopening of a branch of Boots.

The building was in the process of being turned into Scotland’s first Zedwell hotel by real estate firm Criterion Capital at the time of the fire on 9 July.

A spokesperson said it would “inappropriate to comment or speculate” on the building’s future while the fire investigation was ongoing.

The council said a steel frame was being installed “reinforce the façade” and vehicles would be able to pass once that was completed.

The local authority said work to erect that was dependent on weather conditions and wind speeds remaining low to allow cranes to operate.

They added investigations had found an original Victorian staircase and the stained-glass windows memorial to former Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, dating from the 1880s, survived the blaze.

Council leader Jane Meagher said: “I welcome the fact that the Scottish government have finally agreed to get around the table and look at what support they can offer during this incredibly challenging time for our city.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the deputy first minister next week and working together in the collective interests of our residents, visitors and businesses.”