A significant fire disrupted operations at BBC Scotland's headquarters in Pacific Quay, Glasgow, on Monday morning, leading to the evacuation of staff and taking a key radio programme off air.
Early Morning Evacuation and Emergency Response
The incident began in the early hours of Monday 01 December 2025. Staff were evacuated from the building at approximately 6.30am after fire alarms sounded throughout the premises. Emergency services, including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, attended the scene promptly.
Initial reports indicate the blaze was located in a plant room at roof level of the modern broadcast centre. Their swift action was crucial in managing the situation.
Broadcast Disruption and On-Air Changes
The fire had an immediate impact on BBC Scotland's broadcast output. BBC Radio Scotland's flagship Breakfast show was taken off air as a direct result of the incident. Listeners tuning in found the schedule had been altered, with the station temporarily carrying a broadcast from BBC Radio 5 Live instead.
This unplanned change highlights the operational challenges posed by the emergency, affecting one of the station's most listened-to programmes.
Official Statement and Safety Priority
A spokesperson for BBC Scotland acknowledged the event and expressed gratitude for the emergency response. "We thank the emergency services for their rapid response," the spokesperson stated. They emphasised that the corporation's primary focus was on welfare, adding, "We are working hard to ensure the safety of all of our colleagues."
The statement confirms that while the fire caused considerable disruption, the wellbeing of staff remained the top priority. An investigation into the cause of the fire is likely to follow.
