Glasgow Central Station Fully Reopens After Major Fire Disruption
All platforms at Glasgow Central station have fully reopened more than two weeks after a fire in a nearby building led to the station's closure for several days. The fire began on Sunday, March 8, in a vape shop on Union Street and spread through the building, leaving only the facade of the B-listed Victorian structure at the junction with Gordon Street standing.
Phased Reopening and Demolition Progress
The main part of the station was shut for over a week while demolition work continued on the fire-damaged building. Platforms seven to fifteen were brought back into use on Wednesday, March 18. Following substantial progress on the demolition, Network Rail Scotland announced that the exclusion zone could be reduced, allowing platforms one to six to reopen on Wednesday, March 25.
All platforms are now fully available for passenger services, including ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, CrossCountry, and Caledonian Sleeper services. The low-level station, located below the main concourse of the high-level station, had already reopened for train services from Wednesday, March 11.
Safety Checks and Operational Restoration
The reopening of the high-level station came after detailed inspections, operational checks, repairs, and cleaning. Station facilities, including the main toilets and shops, have also reopened, with mobility support continuing to be available. A small exclusion zone remains in place on the high-level concourse as work continues on the fire-damaged building, with entrances on Gordon Street and Union Street remaining shut.
However, the upper Hope Street entrance, the Hope Street driveway, and the low-level entrances are open, with staff on hand to guide passengers. ScotRail is resuming its normal timetable from Glasgow Central high level, though minor alterations to services may occur as some trains may be out of position following the station closure.
Statements from Network Rail and ScotRail
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, stated: "Glasgow Central is at the heart of the city and is Scotland's busiest station, and we've been fully focused on getting everyone back safely. The aftermath of the fire has been a significant challenge for everyone involved, but our teams have been working tirelessly to restore the station and support our passengers, train operators, and retailers."
David Ross, ScotRail chief operating officer, added: "We understand how frustrating the closure has been for customers whose journeys have been disrupted and we're very sorry for the impact it has had. The safety of our customers and staff is our priority, and the decision to reopen the high level has only been taken following comprehensive safety checks by Glasgow City Council and Network Rail."
Passengers are advised to check their journey before travelling due to potential minor service alterations.
