Residents displaced by fire set to protest

Residents forced out of their homes because of the art school fire are set to protest.

The Garnethill Displaced Residents Group will gather at the cordon surrounding the Glasgow School of Art this afternoon.

In a letter sent to Glasgow City Council officials earlier this week, the residents and business owners affected by the blaze said they would “access our legally-owned properties through the cordon” and intended to breach the barrier to get their belongings.

However, the local authority’s chief executive issued an immediate reply, warning if they do try to go into their homes they would be risking arrest, with extra police patrols called in.

It is now understood locals will protest at the site instead.

Anne Marie O’donnell said that the council had a legal duty to protect people’s safety, and added: “We are considering whether to stop work on the demolition of the building altogether while the threat of breaching the cordon persists.

“This site is dangerous. The council will not exclude people from their homes and businesses any longer than is necessary. I urge you withdraw your statement that you intend to enter the site.”

The fire broke out at the iconic Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed building on June 15.