A ‘landmark’ Glasgow hotel is set to reopen after it was forced to temporarily close nearly two months ago.
Voco Grand Central Hotel will welcome customers back today (June 1) as part of a phased reopening following its closure in March.
The Gordon Street venue was evacuated on Sunday, March 8, as firefighters tackled a devastating blaze that broke out at a nearby four-storey commercial building on Union Street.
Hours later, the flames spread and caused the partial collapse of the property. It suffered extensive damage, and the fire resulted in the loss of its historic dome.
Since then, the hotel, which is adjoining Glasgow Central Station, has remained closed as demolition crews moved in to tear down the surviving structure.
Today’s announcement is said to mark an important milestone in the hotel’s reopening after the fire, with guests once again able to stay, dine, and meet in the landmark venue.
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Voco Grand Central’s interiors, accommodation, and key public spaces will all be open, with some additional restoration works continuing on the staircase area.
Champagne Central will also reopen with a refreshed drinks offering, including a new cocktail menu.
Its popular afternoon tea menu is returning, as well as an early evening set menu. Meanwhile, Tempus Restaurant will be fully operational for breakfast service, as usual.
Marcello Ventisei, general manager of voco Grand Central, 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.
“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.”
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The hotel first opened in 1883, more than 140 years ago, welcoming generations of visitors and playing a ‘central role’ in the city’s hospitality sector.
Marcello added: “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.”
For further information, visit voco Grand Central Hotel’s website HERE.
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