Firefighters battling the blaze at the iconic Glasgow School of Art (GSA) Macintosh Building in Glasgow City Centre have prevented the destruction of both the structure and the majority of its contents.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews are continuing work to fully extinguish the fire and save artworks. Buildings nearby, including the Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA) on Sauchiehall Street, were evacuated due to the risks presented by the blaze.
A statement released by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters’ efforts have ensured more than 90% of the structure is viable and up to 70% of the building’s contents – including many students’ work – have been protected.
Assistant Chief Officer Dave Boyle said: ‘Crews have been working absolutely flat out throughout this very challenging incident and it is clear their effort and skill has saved this treasured building and many of the items it housed.
‘While the priority from the outset was to save life we have also been working closely with Glasgow School of Art staff to ensure firefighters conducted an effective salvage operation.’
