Union Street reopens after firefighters closure

Glasgow City Council confirmed this morning at 7am that the road had reopened.

Union Street was closed to traffic between Gordon Street and Argyle Street due to a dangerous loose poster that was partially attached to scaffolding on the Egyptian Halls building.

Three fire engines were sent to the iconic building just after 5pm last night after the alarm was raised with emergency services. 

One eyewitness described the canvas cover "becoming detached" from the building.

The road was sealed off while emergency services worked to make the area safe.

The thoroughfare is the route out of the city centre for buses. The closure meant diversions during rush hour resulted in congestion throughout the area. Train commuters accessing Central Station also used other entrances.  

We previously reported that the owner of the building Derek Souter said the building needs extensive repairs, totalling at least £10 million but potentially rising to £30m.

The building is regarded by man as one of Alexander 'Greek' Thomson's finest works. 

READ MORE: Egyptian Halls: Developer’s plea to save Glasgow masterpiece

The category A-listed property has fallen into disrepair after lying empty for decades.

The Dundee developer says the almost 150-year-old property’s upper floor is an ideal location for a new 100+ bedroom three or four-star hotel, with the ground floor suitable for bars and restaurants.

He claims it would kick start the regeneration of Union Street, bringing around 200 jobs to the city.