Massive Blaze Forces Glasgow Central Station Closure, Forsyth Building Partially Collapses
March 8, 2026
A large blaze on Union Street near Glasgow Central Station disrupted services and forced the station to close for now.
The Forsyth Building, a historic four-storey Victorian block housing a vape shop, partially collapsed as flames tore through the interior, while neighboring structures like the Caledonian Chambers and Central Hotel largely remained intact.
Train services were halted with no trains on the high-level platforms and low-level services not stopping at Glasgow Central during the incident.
Officials and local politicians voiced concern and issued safety guidance, noting the partial collapse and impact on adjoining buildings, with some structures reportedly undamaged.
This is developing breaking news, with more updates expected as the situation progresses.
First Minister John Swinney condemned the blaze, thanked emergency crews, and urged the public to follow travel guidance and stay away from the area.
Witnesses described thick smoke and panic as pedestrians and commuters were affected in the city center.
Dramatic images showed flames around a domed roof and a water jet directed by a crane, underscoring the scale of the firefighting effort.
Public advisories urged people to avoid the area, keep windows closed, and note evacuations of nearby businesses and hotels.
Firefighters deployed more than 60 personnel with multiple appliances and high-reach units; there were no reported casualties as the fire was being brought under control.
Rail operators adjusted services and issued guidance, including ticketing arrangements and advisories to avoid travel, with some replacements and cancellations affecting Monday journeys.
ScotRail urged passengers to check travel plans before traveling, as service disruption extended into the evening.
Summary based on 12 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Mar 8, 2026
Huge fire at Glasgow Central Station prompts evacuations as building collapses
The Guardian • Mar 8, 2026
Fire near Glasgow Central station causes major rail disruption
Daily Mail • Mar 8, 2026
Chaos as fire sees Glasgow Central Station closed and evacuated and traffic grind to a halt