Work to partially dismantle sections of the Glasgow School of Art Mackintosh building is expected to begin in the coming days, marking a critical phase in the ongoing efforts to secure the historic structure. The building, a masterpiece of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, has faced significant challenges since the devastating fires in 2014 and 2018, which left it in a precarious state.
Recent remote surveys and close-in inspections from baskets suspended from cranes have revealed more substantial movement in the walls of the building than previously thought. This alarming development means a sudden collapse of parts of the building is now highly likely, rather than just a possibility. The structural instability has prompted urgent action to prevent further damage and ensure public safety.
There is now a pressing need to at least partially dismantle sections of the building as a matter of urgency. However, the dangerous nature of the site, which includes the Mackintosh building and the adjacent O2 ABC venue, means it will take around two days to devise a safe method for taking down the south façade—the most seriously affected part of the building. The West gable of the Mackintosh building has continued to deteriorate, and the East gable has shown further outward movement, compounding the challenges faced by engineers and contractors.
While it is not yet possible to pinpoint an exact start date for the work, authorities have confirmed it will begin as soon as possible. The demolition contractor has been asked to consider starting on the Eastern side of the site. If feasible, this approach could increase the chances of stabilising the East wall, potentially allowing access to residents in Dalhousie Street. However, Glasgow City Council, the Glasgow School of Art (GSoA), and the contractors have emphasised that the process will not be quick, and the cordon around the site will remain in place for the foreseeable future.
The risks associated with the site are significant. While any part of the building remains unstable, there is still a danger of falling bricks or stone sliding downhill, potentially affecting buildings on Sauchiehall Street. This has necessitated a cautious and methodical approach to the dismantling process.
Glasgow City Council’s Head of Building Control, Raymond Barlow, outlined the gravity of the situation: “This building has undergone substantial stress in recent days. With each passing day, a sudden collapse becomes more likely. It has become urgent that we take down the south façade. As the process begins, it will be likely that the other walls will also need to be reduced.
“We do not know what effect this will have on the rest of the building, so I have to be clear: this site remains dangerous and is becoming more dangerous. It is particularly important that people observe the cordon, which remains in place.”
The Mackintosh building, completed in 1909, is widely regarded as one of the most important examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the UK. Its loss would be a significant blow to Glasgow’s cultural heritage. Efforts to stabilise and eventually restore the building have been ongoing since the first fire in 2014, but the challenges have been immense. The latest developments underscore the complexities of preserving historic structures in the face of severe damage.
For now, the priority remains ensuring the safety of the public and workers on-site. Residents and businesses in the area are urged to stay informed and adhere to the cordon restrictions until further notice. The coming days will be crucial in determining the next steps for this iconic building.
