Several small businesses have been destroyed or damaged by a large fire in Glasgow city centre.
The fire started on Sunday afternoon in a vape shop on Union Street before spreading along the B-listed building beside Glasgow Central Station. Large parts of the four-storey Victorian building have collapsed.
Around 30 small businesses, including hair salons, cafes and barbers, have been impacted by the fire with several premises completely destroyed and all equipment lost.
Water has been pumped from the River Clyde to douse the flames, but the fire has taken hold of the Victorian buildings.
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Many of the affected business owners have set up a GoFundMe page asking for donations to help them recover. At the time of writing, tens of thousands of pounds has been raised.
One of the businesses is CeCe’s Salon run by Courtney Mackinnon. Its fundraising page says:
“Every chair, mirror, product, art, and piece of equipment in the salon was chosen with care. Over the last four years Cece’s has grown into something truly special, supported by an amazing community of clients and friends.
“Tragically, this business is Courtney’s only source of income. In one day she has not only lost the salon she worked so hard to build, but also her ability to earn a living. Running a small independent business in the UK is already incredibly challenging, and losing everything so suddenly has created a situation that is both emotionally and financially devastating.”
Another founder, Levi McIntyre from Crybaby Hairclub, said:
“Sitting here this morning, I wrote out a spreadsheet of everything I lost. Every tool, every comb and clip. My DSLR, my lenses and all of my digital photography equipment. All of my backbar and products… little mementos and gifts from clients. It feels endless. Sadly my insurance will not cover the contents of the studio, a horrific oversight and mistake on my part. So anything helps as I rebuild.”
Commenting on the fire, Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander said:
“My thoughts are with those who have lost their businesses and livelihoods but I’m also saddened at the significant loss of historical architecture.
“My thanks go to the emergency services who were quick to respond to the incident. Their bravery and dedication meant thankfully no one was injured and they worked tirelessly to bring the situation under control.”