Glasgow Central returns to full timetable after major city fire

Glasgow Central station is set to fully resume operations with all platforms reopening and a complete timetable reinstated on Wednesday. This marks the first time since a significant fire at a nearby building disrupted services that the station will be functioning as usual. While the main entrance remains closed and a small exclusion zone persists within the station, key amenities such as shops, ticket offices, and restrooms will be accessible to travelers once again.

The fire occurred on Sunday, 8 March, originating from a vape shop on Union Street. It quickly spread and caused severe damage to a Victorian-era building situated at the intersection of Union Street and Gordon Street, leaving only its façade intact. Efforts led by Network Rail have focused on the demolition of the historic structure and ensuring safety measures are in place to allow full reopening of the platforms at Glasgow Central.

Following the fire, rail services from the station’s high-level platforms were completely halted for ten days. Last week saw the reopening of platforms seven to 15, enabling operators to introduce a reduced timetable. Recently, platforms one to six have been reopened, which will allow trains to run according to a regular schedule. However, the main entrances on Gordon Street and Union Street remain closed as part of the ongoing exclusion zone designed to guarantee passenger safety.

Passengers are currently directed to use alternative access points including the upper Hope Street entrance, the Hope Street driveway, and the low-level entrances to enter and exit the station. Before reopening all platforms, Network Rail completed comprehensive inspections, cleaning, and repairs along with operational checks to ensure everything is up to standard. Meanwhile, local businesses and public transport services surrounding the station continue to be affected by the fire, with some shops staying closed and bus routes remaining diverted due to safety concerns in the nearby area

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