Glasgow Central station fire causes major disruption across Glasgow

Published: 09 March 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A major fire near Glasgow Central station on Sunday has caused widespread rail disruption across the city.

Travel disruption is expected to continue throughout Monday after a large blaze broke out at a vape shop on Union Street. National Rail confirmed the station remains closed, with no estimate given for when operations might resume.

“We expect disruption to continue on routes to, from, and through Glasgow Central until at least the end of the day,” a spokesperson said. The high-level platforms are closed entirely, while trains passing through the low-level platforms will not stop at Glasgow Central.

Avanti West Coast advised passengers that an amended service would operate to Preston, Carlisle, and Motherwell, allowing connections to trains towards Edinburgh and local Glasgow services. Passengers were urged to check timetables before travelling.

ScotRail warned of significant disruption and reminded passengers to remain updated on service changes. TransPennine Express also confirmed that services between Glasgow Central and Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central and Manchester Airport, would not run on Monday. Trains between Edinburgh and Newcastle, as well as Manchester Airport, were subject to delays and cancellations in both directions.

By 5am on Monday, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported that crews were still tackling the blaze and urged members of the public to avoid the area. “Firefighters were mobilised at 3.46pm on Sunday, 8 March, to reports of a fire on the ground floor of a four-storey building. Operations remain ongoing and there have been no reports of casualties,” a spokesperson said.

First Minister John Swinney expressed concern about the fire on social media and praised the emergency services for their prompt response. He urged citizens to follow travel guidance and avoid the affected area to remain safe.

Labour MSP Paul Sweeney described the situation as severe, confirming that the building involved has partially collapsed. In a social media post, he said the structure dates back to 1851 and represents significant historical value.

“Sadly the building has now partially collapsed. I hope the fire can be contained,” Sweeney wrote. He added that nearby buildings, including the Forsyth Building, Caledonian Chambers, and Central Hotel, appeared to have avoided major damage.

Sweeney noted the broader impact on Union Street, stating, “It’s a massive blow to Union Street, especially with the restoration of the Egyptian Halls in prospect.” At the peak of operations, fifteen fire appliances, three high-reach vehicles, and a water rescue team were deployed to combat the blaze.

Authorities emphasised the priority of public safety, highlighting that no casualties had been reported so far. However, the fire has disrupted the daily routines of thousands of commuters relying on Glasgow Central, Scotland’s busiest station.

Emergency responders have been working tirelessly, ensuring the fire does not spread to adjacent buildings, while rail operators coordinate alternative services to minimise disruption. The incident has sparked concern over the preservation of historic architecture in Glasgow, as local landmarks face potential damage from fire and smoke.

Transport officials warned that restoration of normal train services may take several days, and they urged passengers to plan their journeys carefully. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that firefighting efforts remain complex, due to the building’s age and structural instability.

Local residents reported seeing thick smoke rising above Union Street on Sunday afternoon, with emergency crews quickly establishing safety perimeters. The public was advised to avoid the area and follow official guidance from authorities.

Glasgow Central’s closure has affected both local and long-distance routes, with passengers directed to alternative stations and connecting services. Rail operators have emphasised that safety checks must be completed before the station can reopen, highlighting the extent of the damage.

Officials continue to monitor the fire, and updates are expected throughout the day. Meanwhile, the city faces a significant logistical challenge as commuters adapt to disrupted travel schedules.

The Scottish Government has expressed appreciation for the professionalism of firefighters and emergency teams, whose coordinated response has prevented further damage. Authorities also emphasised the importance of community vigilance and compliance with safety measures.

This incident underscores the critical need for fire safety preparedness in densely populated urban areas, particularly around historic buildings that may be more vulnerable to fire. Residents and visitors alike are advised to stay alert and follow updates from official sources.

As investigations continue, rail operators will work to restore service as quickly and safely as possible, while firefighters complete their extensive operations to secure the site. Glasgow Central station remains a central hub, and its temporary closure has highlighted the importance of coordinated emergency response and public awareness.

The full impact of the blaze on local businesses and historic buildings is still being assessed, with structural engineers and heritage experts expected to survey the area once the fire is extinguished. Union Street’s recovery may take time, reflecting the long-term implications of the incident.

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