The Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council need to urgently publish a clear response and recovery plan for affected businesses, UKHospitality Scotland has said.
The closure of Glasgow Central, Scotland’s busiest railway station, is devastating the local economy, with no rail commuter footfall and cancelled trips impacting local businesses across Glasgow.
With the station expected to remain largely closed for an extended period of time, UKHospitality Scotland has said it needs to be a ‘national priority’ to ensure a critical piece of Scottish infrastructure is fully operational as soon as possible.
Business support plan
It is also calling for the introduction of a business recovery plan to support affected businesses, which should include 100% business rates relief for the most impacted.
The closure has also dealt a devastating blow to consumer confidence, and the support measures should include a Government-led consumer campaign encouraging people back into the city centre.
Call for action
Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said: “This was a devastating fire that has left Glasgow shocked and shaken. The lack of commuter footfall and visitors we’re now seeing has left some businesses devoid of their usual trade.
“Restoring Glasgow Central to full operations as soon as possible must be a national priority.
“This is the busiest station in Scotland, so we need to see the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council throw its weight and resource behind a swift reopening and comprehensive business support package.
“Local businesses are already struggling without their usual custom and financial support, such as 100% business rates relief, will be vital to keep them afloat.
“There is only so long businesses can survive without a normal flow of customers. The Scottish Government and the council should work with UKHospitality Scotland, other business groups and affected venues on a business recovery plan to ensure it can properly provide the support needed.”
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