Fire crews used tall ladder equipment to fight the blaze that started on Sunday. Photo: Getty Images.
A large fire near Glasgow Central station caused major travel disruption across the rail network on Sunday and authorities expect the impact to continue through Monday.
The blaze began at a vape shop on Union Street, close to Scotland’s busiest railway station. Rail officials confirmed that the station would remain closed while emergency crews continued to handle the situation.
National Rail said services in and around the station would remain affected throughout the day.
“We expect disruption to continue on routes to/from/through Glasgow Central until at least the end of the day,” the rail authority said in a statement.
Officials also confirmed that trains will not operate to or from the station’s high-level platforms. Services that normally pass through the low-level platforms will travel through the area but will not stop at Glasgow Central.
Firefighters Continue To Battle Blaze
Emergency crews rushed to the scene Sunday afternoon after receiving reports of a fire inside a four-storey building.
A spokesperson from the fire service explained when the emergency response began.
“Firefighters were mobilised at 3.46pm on Sunday, 8 March, to reports of a fire on the ground floor of a four-storey building.”
Crews remained at the location overnight as they worked to control the flames.
“Operations remain ongoing and there have been no reports of casualties.”
Firefighters used large ladders and high-reach equipment to spray water onto the burning structure. At the height of the emergency response, officials deployed fifteen fire engines along with specialist vehicles and rescue teams.
Authorities asked people to avoid the area while crews continued their work.
Rail Services Across Region Affected
The fire quickly created widespread disruption for rail travellers. Train operators adjusted their schedules while crews assessed damage near the station.
One major train company confirmed that its revised schedule would run services only as far as Preston, Carlisle, and Motherwell. Passengers can continue their journeys from those locations by transferring to other trains heading toward Edinburgh or local destinations in the Glasgow area.
Other rail services warned passengers about cancellations and delays throughout the region. Some routes between Glasgow and cities such as Liverpool and Manchester will not run at all during the disruption.
Meanwhile, trains travelling between Edinburgh and cities in northern England may also experience delays or cancellations in both directions.
Rail operators advised travellers to check updates before leaving home and to allow extra time for their journeys.
Leaders Express Concern
Political leaders also reacted to the situation as firefighters continued their efforts.
Scotland’s First Minister shared his concern about the incident.
“I am deeply concerned about the fire near Glasgow Central Station tonight and very grateful to all of the emergency services who are responding,” he said.
“Please continue to follow travel guidance, avoid the area and stay safe.”
Local representatives also reported damage to the historic building where the fire began. One official said the structure, which dates back to the mid-19th century, had partly collapsed during the incident.
Despite the damage, nearby landmarks including surrounding historic buildings and the Central Hotel appeared unaffected.
Ongoing Disruption Expected
Authorities expect train services around Glasgow Central to remain disrupted until crews fully secure the area and inspect railway infrastructure nearby.
Passengers travelling through Scotland’s busiest rail hub should continue checking updates and prepare for changes to train schedules throughout Monday.
Emergency crews remain focused on containing the fire and protecting surrounding buildings in the busy city centre.
