A financial package worth up to £10 million has been made available by the Scottish Government to rebuild and renew the area of Glasgow impacted by the Union Corner fire.
Additionally, up to £1 million will be made available to help Glasgow City Council with demolition costs relating to the building left ‘seriously compromised’ by the blaze on March 8.
The £10 million grant scheme will support recovery efforts near Glasgow Central where around 71 businesses were damaged or destroyed by the fire and remain within a safety cordon which is closed to the public.
Glasgow City Council will administer the scheme based on engagement with local businesses to understand how they have been affected.
First minister John Swinney said, “There has been significant disruption for people and businesses as a result of the devastating fire at Union Corner, including through the closure of Glasgow Central station. As I made clear in the immediate aftermath of the fire, the Scottish Government is absolutely committed to working closely with Glasgow City Council to ensure financial support was available.
“Some owners have lost their properties, in some cases their livelihoods, and others have been affected by access issues because of safety restrictions around the site. I am grateful to Glasgow City Council for talking to business owners about their circumstances, and that important work has established a clearer understanding of the extent of the support that is required.
“Following that engagement, I am pleased to confirm the Scottish Government will deliver a package of financial support, including up to £10 million to help businesses in this important part of Glasgow. The Scottish Government remains committed to working urgently with partners to ensure there is the fullest possible recovery in what is the heart of the city centre.”
