Vape shop safety under review after Glasgow fire – Daily Business

Smoke bellowing from the vape shop where loud bangs could be heard

Vape shops could face a safety crackdown after the fire which destroyed a historic building and a number of businesses in the heart of Glasgow.

The building at the corner of Union Street and Gordon Street collapsed after the blaze took hold on Sunday afternoon.

Rail services from the neighbouring Central Station were cancelled on Monday for safety purposes, though the building did not suffer any notable damage. There were also no casualties.

First Minister John Swinney, who visited the site on Monday, said: “There has been some imagery of the immediate circumstances of the incident which looks to have started in a vape shop.

“Some of the explosions around that are deeply unnerving and concerning.

“There will be a range of issues that emerge as a consequence and the government will be open-minded about looking at all those questions.”

He later issued a statement suggesting the government would be looking to help with the rebuilding efforts on the site.

The landmark dome collapsed into the ruins

“The Scottish Government will work closely with, and support, Glasgow City Council on recovery efforts, recognising the significant costs that are likely to arise as the impact of the incident becomes clearer,” he said.

There was an outpouring of dismay at the loss of another historic building in the city, while one commentator noted that its occupants included several businesses owned by women and the fire happened on International Women’s Day.

Paul Sweeney, the Labour MSP said: “It’s a massive blow to Union Street with the restoration of the [neighbouring] Egyptian Halls in prospect.”

Stuart Patrick, chief executive at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce said:  “The fire has been devastating for Glasgow, particularly for the businesses directly affected.

“Glasgow’s Victorian architecture is world-renowned, and to see a building that has dominated the city’s skyline for more than 170 years disappear is truly heartbreaking.

“However, Glasgow is a resilient city. Its business community will rebuild, and people will continue to work together to support one another in the weeks and months ahead.”

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