Flames gutted much of the 182-year-old Pollokshaws Parish Church on Shawbridge Street in Glasgow’s southside, with nearby flats evacuated as crews worked at the scene
A centuries-old church in Glasgow’s southside has been ravaged by flames in a devastating overnight fire. Emergency crews raced to Pollokshaws Parish Church on Shawbridge Street during the early hours of Sunday morning, December 7, following reports of the blaze at approximately 2.44am.
The inferno tore through large sections of the 182 year old structure, causing part of the historic building to crumble. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) told Glasgow Live that three fire engines, including a high-reach unit, were dispatched to battle the flames in the small hours.
At 11.30am, emergency teams were still on site, with Shawbridge Street shut to vehicles as firefighters continued tackling the incident. Neighbouring flats were evacuated as a safety measure, though thankfully no casualties have been recorded.
Crews have been forced to tackle the fire from outside due to fears of additional structural failure, and officials have yet to confirm the blaze is completely out.
Shawbridge Street stays shut at both ends whilst emergency services continue to work at the scene. Heartbroken locals have voiced their grief over the incident, calling it “absolutely devastating for the Pollokshaws community” across social media platforms.
One resident commented: “The church has stood for generations – and seeing it like this from above is truly emotional. Sending strength to everyone affected by last night’s fire.”
Another local expressed their heartbreak, saying: “Absolutely devastated about Pollokshaws Parish Church being burnt down. That was the family church away back as far as my nanna and grandad.”
In response to the fire, Glasgow City Council has advised motorists to steer clear of the area. The council issued a statement: “Shawbridge Street between both terminations of Shawholm Crescent is currently closed to traffic due to a fire.
“Emergency services are on location.” They added a warning for those travelling in the area: “Road users are advised to use alternative routes and delays are to expected.”
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