At the fire’s height, as many as 15 fire appliances were at the scene at Forsyth House, on the corner of Gordon and Union Streets, on Sunday evening.
As photos of the fire spread across social media, figures from across Scottish politics and entertainment weighed in.
“I am deeply concerned about the fire near Glasgow Central Station tonight and very grateful to all of the emergency services who are responding,” First Minister John Swinney said on X.
A fire rips through Sexy Coffee in Glasgow. (Image: Newsquest)
“Please continue to follow travel guidance, avoid the area and stay safe.”
Meanwhile, Labour MSP Paul Sweeney shared a video of the building’s collapse on X, tweeting: “I hope the fire can be contained.
“It’s a massive blow to Union Street with the restoration of the Egyptian Halls in prospect.”
Tory MSP Sandesh Gulhane added: “Deeply concerning scenes in Glasgow city centre as firefighters tackle the blaze at Union St and Gordon St.
“Grateful to emergency crews working to bring it under control and stop it spreading. Sadly, another historic building lost.”
Businesses affected by the fire also reacted on social media.
The owners of Sexy Coffee, which occupies the unit on the corner of Gordon and Union Streets, confirmed that the business had been “destroyed”.
A post on Facebook read: “We are absolutely devastated to confirm that the shop has sadly been destroyed in the fire. It is heartbreaking for us and our team, especially after the support and loyalty we have received from so many of you over the years.
A fire on Union Street close to Glasgow Central. (Image: Supplied)
“However, we want to reassure everyone that this is not the end. We will rebuild, revamp the shop, and reopen as soon as possible.
“In the meantime, our Argyle Street branch remains open, and we would love to welcome you there.”
Glasgow-born comedian Darren Dowling, or Dazza, shared a number of photos from the scene with his hundreds of thousands of followers.
He wrote on Facebook: “Watching a section of the city you grew up in just completely destroyed … is actually heartbreaking. Gutted for all the local businesses around there.”
Scottish Greens activist and candidate for Holyrood Iris Duane compared the destruction of the historic building to the Norte Dame in Paris.
She said: “Once the dust is settled, it must be the absolute priority of our council to restore the building in its full glory.
“No politics. No red tape. Just let’s get this done.”
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Meanwhile, Glasgow comedian Zara Gladwell launched a fundraiser after her friends Gemma and Aimee’s shop Haus of Hair was destroyed by the flames.
She said: “Tonight, ‘Haus of Hair’ burned down in the Union street fire. Just days after opening. On International Women’s Day.
“I am devastated for Gemma and Aimee, and for Glasgow.
“I have set up this fundraiser to support ‘Haus of Hair’ during this awful time. These talented women have lost their premises, their furniture, their equipment, their time – everything they poured so much love and care into building.”
