Large fire forces closure of Glasgow Central Station, Scotland's busiest rail hub
A blaze that started in a vape shop on Union Street spread to a Victorian building, causing partial collapse and mass train cancellations.
March 8, 2026
A large fire broke out Sunday afternoon at a vape shop on Union Street in Glasgow, spreading rapidly to engulf a four-storey Victorian building adjacent to Glasgow Central Station and forcing the closure of Scotland's busiest railway terminal.
The fire began in the vape shop and extended to the B-listed historic building, which partially collapsed several hours after the blaze started. More than 60 firefighters responded to tackle the blaze, which continued for more than five hours after initial reports.
Authorities said the fire was under control by early Monday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported no casualties from the incident.
Glasgow Central Station, the busiest in Scotland, was closed until further notice following the fire. National Rail suspended all train services to and from the station's high-level platforms. ScotRail, the country's passenger railway network operator, said no trains would operate in or out of the station on Monday, with disruption expected to continue through at least the end of Monday.
Dozens of train services were cancelled on Sunday evening as a result of the closure. Passengers were advised to seek alternative travel arrangements. Network Rail, which manages Britain's railway system, said following a midnight meeting that it had not identified significant damage to the station itself and would conduct a full assessment at first light.
Large crowds gathered at the edge of cordons on Renfield Street and Gordon Street to watch the fire, prompting emergency services to urge people to stay away from the area.
First Minister John Swinney said on social media: "I am deeply concerned about the fire near Glasgow Central Station tonight and very grateful to all of the emergency services who are responding. Please continue to follow travel guidance, avoid the area and stay safe."
The closure threatened disruption for commuters at the start of the work week, with officials warning that train service disruptions would extend through at least Monday.