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Grand Central begins phased reopening following Union St fire

voco Grand Central
The ‘Citizen Firefighter’ statue that stands outside voco Grand Central, first unveiled in 2001,

Glasgow’s voco Grand Central Hotel is once again opening its doors to guests as part of a phased return to business following its closure in March due to the major fire that consumed a neighbouring building.

Described as an ‘important milestone’ in the hotel’s ongoing reopening, from today – June 1 – guests will be able to stay, dine and meet in the landmark city centre hotel.

The company statement said that voco Grand Central’s interiors, accommodation and key public spaces will now be open, with some ‘additional restoration works’ continuing on the staircase area.

The Champagne Central bar returns with a refreshed drinks offering, including a new cocktail menu.

Union St
Union St and its surrounds have been severely disrupted since the blaze in early March

Its popular afternoon tea menu is also back, as well as an early evening set menu. Tempus Restaurant will be fully operational for breakfast service, as usual.

General manager of voco Grand Central, Marcello Ventisei, said: “We are incredibly pleased to be reopening our doors today, marking another important chapter in the story of one of the city’s most treasured buildings.

“The outpouring of support we have received over recent months from our guests, neighbours, partners and the wider public has been truly overwhelming, and we are enormously grateful for the kindness and patience shown to us throughout this period,” said Ventisei.

A suited man stands in front of a wall of portraits
Marcello Ventisei

“We would also like to once again express our sincere thanks to the firefighters and emergency services, whose professionalism, bravery and swift response during the incident were exceptional.”

He continued: “This hotel has been part of the fabric of the city since 1883 and has stood through some extraordinary moments in history. While this has undoubtedly been a challenging chapter, we are proud to be welcoming guests back and looking forward to the future.

“This reopening is particularly exciting for our team, many of whom have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for the hotel’s return. The spirit of the building, and the affection people hold for it, has remained unmistakably strong.

“Guests can expect the same warm welcome and experience they know and love from the moment they arrive.”