Devastating Fire Destroys Historic Pollokshaws Parish Church in Glasgow
Community Landmark Lost in Early Morning Blaze
A devastating fire has destroyed Pollokshaws Parish Church, a cherished landmark in Glasgow’s southside that had stood for 182 years. Emergency services were called to the B-listed church on Shawbridge Street at around 2:44am on Sunday, 7 December, as flames engulfed the historic building.
Part of the 182-year-old church collapsed as flames destroyed much of the structure, with surrounding flats evacuated as a precaution, though no injuries were reported. Six appliances and a height vehicle were dispatched to the scene and the fire was only fully extinguished on Sunday afternoon.
A Cornerstone of the Community
Built in 1843 as Pollockshaws Original Secession Church, it later became the parish church. For 182 years, the church had been a cornerstone of the fabric of the Shaws, cherished by many who had associations with Pollokshaws through rites of baptism, marriage and funeral services, as well as by generations of faithful worshippers, youth and children’s organisations.
The Church of Scotland spokesperson said the congregation was devastated by the sudden loss of its building by fire. Local residents expressed their heartbreak on social media, with many sharing memories of family connections to the church spanning generations.
Investigation Underway as Community Grieves
Police Scotland said an investigation into the cause of the fire was under way. Shawbridge Street remains closed between Netherauldhouse Road and Shawholm Crescent as authorities continue their work at the scene.
Despite the loss, the Church of Scotland offered a message of hope, stating their wish “that a new Pollokshaws can yet rise out of the ashes for generations to come.” The fire represents not only the loss of a historic building but also a beloved community gathering place that witnessed the area’s transformation over nearly two centuries, leaving residents to contemplate the future of this important local institution.