Union Street fire: Calls to rethink vape licensing as more shops found near listed Glasgow buildings
Summary
A fire at Union Corner in Glasgow has sparked calls for a review of vape shop licensing and planning regulations, particularly concerning buildings near flammable materials. While the fire's cause is still under investigation, Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken acknowledged the need for a conversation about battery storage and disposal, highlighting existing public safety campaigns. Labour MSP Paul Sweeney criticized the suitability of city center heritage buildings for hosting hazardous materials like vapes, noting the destruction of 175 years of Glasgow's heritage. An investigation by GlasgowWorld revealed four additional vape shops located in or near listed buildings, raising concerns about risk assessment and fire safety protocols. Questions have been raised regarding the statutory obligations of vape shop owners and whether the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) had conducted inspections.
(Source:Glasgowworld)