Sauchiehall Street blaze latest
More than 120 firefighters are still fighting the flames
Last updated 22nd Mar 2018
Firefighters are still battling to control a blaze which has ripped through at building in Sauchiehall Street containing Victoria's nightclub, but the neighbouring Pavillion Theatre is safe so far.
Dozens of local business have been evacuated and people told to stay well clear of the area because of an asbestos risk - as 120 firefighters battling the blaze.
Emergency services were called to the scene at 8.18am on Thursday after a blaze took hold in the roof space of commercial premises. Thick smoke billowed across the pedestrian precinct and streets were cordoned off as fire crews battled the blaze.
Flames could been seen in the roof of the building which houses Victoria's nightclub and has several shops at street level.
Pavillion Theatre manager tells Clyde News the fire has not spread
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the occupants of nearby properties were evacuated and there were no reports of any injuries.
Assistant Chief Officer Lewis Ramsay said: "This is an extremely challenging incident but the response and professionalism of our firefighters has been outstanding. We would urge the occupants of surrounding buildings to remain indoors and keep their windows closed due to the suspected presence of asbestos.
"This will be a protracted incident and crews will remain on the scene as they work to prevent further fire spread and damage in this prominent city-centre location.''
Firefighters were also spotted gaining entry to the nearby Pavilion Theatre.
But general manager Iain Gordon told Clyde News that despite fears earlier today that it too had caught alight the fire has not spread.
Water is being sprayed on the historic building which is separated by a narrow lane.
He continued: "Our problem at the moment will be smoke damage because it's gone right into the side of the building.
"We are very concerned about everything. The building has been there for a long time and is a major part of Glasgow.
"When you see how quickly the fire spread to other parts of the buildings in Sauchiehall Street we just hope the flames don't jump across the lane.
"It's a lane's distance but that's not very far when it's heat and flames going across.''
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the incident appears to be "extremely serious''.
Speaking at First Minister's Questions, she said: "This is a deeply concerning incident in the city of Glasgow.''
She praised the firefighters tackling the "extremely challenging'' blaze and said the Scottish Government's resilience unit will remain in contact with the fire service throughout the incident.