Glasgow Central Station to Fully Reopen
Glasgow Central Station will fully reopen all platforms on Wednesday, two weeks after a significant fire caused the collapse of the adjacent building.
Network Rail announced that all ScotRail and cross-border routes will be restored at Scotland's busiest railway station, following a partial reopening last week.
The station itself avoided severe damage after a fire originating in a vape shop spread through a B-listed Victorian building on Union Street on 8 March.
Platforms one to six will be reopened; however, the station's front entrance on Gordon Street will remain closed due to ongoing demolition and clearance operations.
Statements from Officials
"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.
Our priority now is to keep people moving safely and give everyone who relies on this station a smooth and welcoming experience on Wednesday."
These remarks were made by Network Rail route director Ross Moran.
"This is excellent news for our customers, and I am very pleased we will be able to resume our normal timetable when Glasgow Central High Level reopens for business on Wednesday.
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."
David Ross, ScotRail chief operating officer, expressed these sentiments.
Access and Facilities
Network Rail has advised passengers to continue using the upper Hope Street entrance, Hope Street carriageway, and low-level entrances to access and exit the station.
Station amenities, including shops and main toilets, will also reopen; however, some areas of the main concourse will remain closed.
Services from the low-level station, which operate routes to Balloch and Milngavie in the west and Motherwell and Cumbernauld to the east, resumed two weeks ago.
Returning Services
The following services will return:
Altered routes will also revert to their normal schedules.
Passengers are advised to verify their travel plans before setting out.
Cause and Impact of Closure
The fire began in a vape shop on Union Street at approximately 15:45 on Sunday, 8 March, prompting a rapid response from firefighters.
The blaze subsequently engulfed the entire building located at the corner of Union Street and Gordon Street, adjacent to Glasgow Central Station, resulting in a partial collapse.
Only the facade of the building at the corner of Gordon Street and Union Street remained standing initially.
The building, known as Union Corner, dates back to 1851, predating the station which opened in 1879.
Glasgow City Council confirmed on Sunday that the facade on Gordon Street has now been demolished and that removal of the rubble has commenced.
