Part of Glasgow’s main thoroughfare has been closed due to a huge blaze – with locals reporting that the flames are continuing to spread.
The fire is believed to have broke out above the Holland and Barrett store on Sauchiehall Street at about 8.25am on Thursday morning.
Photos posted to social media showed a massive cloud of smoke engulfing the street and the surrounding area earlier in the morning.
Nearby buildings were evacuated after the incident broke out.
Witnesses are reporting that the fire is continuing to spread, with fears raised for Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre. Staff from the iconic venue have been evacuated.
Photographer Graeme Murray tweeted: “The fire in Glasgow appears to be spreading to the roofs of nearby buildings”.
https://twitter.com/graememurrayPA/status/976790477382004736
Pavilion Theatre staff posted to Facebook: “We are currently dealing with a major fire in the buildings across the lane on Sauchiehall Street from the theatre at the moment with staff unable to access the theatre.
“At the present time, tonight’s show with Jonathan Pie is unlikely to be going ahead due to safety reasons.
“Updates will follow on Social Media as soon as we are in a position to comment further.
“Please note that we will be unable to answer any specific queries on social media at this time regarding bookings.”
They later updated to confirm that Friday night’s Jonathan Pie show had been cancelled.
Is The Pavillion Theatre next? Glasgow Sauchiehall Street fire. Lane just behind #thepavilliontheatreglasgow #sauchiehallstreet #sauchiehallstreetfire #glasgowfire #fire pic.twitter.com/AhjizCdkNC
— neilshealthymeals (@neilhealthymeal) March 22, 2018
Eight fire and rescue appliances are said to be tackling the blaze, with police also called to the scene.
A fire and rescue spokesman said: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 8.18am to reports of a well-developed fire which had taken hold within the roof space of a commercial premises.
“Operations control mobilised a number of fire engines to Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, where firefighters are currently on the scene working to extinguish the fire.
“Crews have safely evacuated the occupants of several nearby properties.”
A number of neighbouring roads have been closed due to the fire.
Glasgow City Police said: “Due to an ongoing incident within the city centre the following roads have been closed – Hope Street from Bath Street and Renfield Street from Renfrew Street.
“Traffic disruption to be expected. Please use an alternative route.”
An eye witness told Glasgow’s Evening Times that the blaze was “massive”, adding: “The smoke is so thick, you can barely see or breathe.”
Crazy fire in Glasgow City Centre right now. Sauchiehall Street closed off. pic.twitter.com/9QS5U2GFDc
— Andrew Learmonth (@andrewlearmonth) March 22, 2018
Fire on Sauchiehall Street looks like it's travelling to buildings to the north ? some amount of black smoke! pic.twitter.com/UwBeaBVnyO
— CJ ? (@UnderCeejUK) March 22, 2018
Sauchiehall street fire getting worse going by amount of smoke pic.twitter.com/hYecg59mHX
— CJ ? (@UnderCeejUK) March 22, 2018
Major fire on Sauchiehall Street this morning. Emergency services on the scene now with road closures to the surrounding areas. Stay safe Glasgow! pic.twitter.com/5ORpE9XjfH
— Ramsay McMichael (@RamsayMcMichael) March 22, 2018
Fire on Sauchiehall Street, near The Works and Holland Barrett's. Stay safe, everyone! #Glasgow pic.twitter.com/gxH7PLCbfP
— Lauren ? (@LJones2807) March 22, 2018
Huge fire at the bottom of Sauchiehall street in Glasgow. Multiple fire crews and ambulances attending right now pic.twitter.com/qxzmyGoyAs
— Scott_Tominey (@ScottTominey) March 22, 2018
Hope Street has been closed to all traffic between Bath Street and Renfrew Street.
More to follow.
