STRUGGLING businesses on Sauchiehall Street affected by two major fires are to be offered help by the city council.

Traders hit by Friday's devastating blaze at the Glasgow School of Art and the fire in March further along the street are to be given financial assistance with business rates.

The announcement follows talks on Tuesday between business owners and Glasgow City Council.

Hisashi Kuboyama, of the Federation of Small Businesses, West of Scotland, said: “This is a smart move from the council and should give some city centre independent businesses extra help at a time when they need it most.

"What will be important is that help is available for firms beyond the so-called exclusion zones.

“Also, it was heartening to see council officers out in force today, getting in touch with traders and hearing about the need to keep local businesses up to date.

"As new plans are developed to turn around this part of the city, decision-makers must ensure local small businesses are involved at every stage.”