Fire crews on scene of Cumbernauld church fire as 'landmark' building destroyed

Emergency services remain on the scene of a fire at a church in Cumbernauld that has burned overnight.

Seven fire engines and specialist resources were called to St Mungo’s Church on St Mungo’s Road around 7.50pm on Saturday.

The building was described as “well-ablaze”, forcing the evacuation of a number of properties nearby.

Due to the volume of smoke, residents of Cumbernauld town centre and Seafar were urged to stay indoors and keep their windows closed.

Three fire engines remain on the scene as of Sunday morning, with the blaze described as “under control”

There are no reports of any casualties.

St Mungo’s Road has been closed to businesses, residents and pedestrians.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “With regard to the fire at St Mungo’s church in Cumbernauld, emergency services remain at scene.

“The fire is under control, and there no reports of any injuries.

“No further requirement to remain indoors or to keep windows and doors closed.

“St Mungo’s Road is still closed to businesses, residents and pedestrians.

“Enquiries into the cause of the blaze ongoing.”

‘Striking landmark’

St Mungo’s Church is a B-listed building dating back to the 1960s.

Historic Environment Scotland describes it as a “striking landmark in the centre of Cumbernauld”.

It adds: “Prominently sited on the top of a small hill, the bold copper pyramidal roof is an important landmark. Alan Reiach designed two churches in Cumbernauld, both of which can accommodate 800, Kildrum Church – the earlier of the two. Alan Reiach (1910-1992), who was apprenticed to Sir Robert Lorimer (1864-1929), was primarily involved in the design of public buildings, including churches, schools, universities and hospitals.

St Mungo's church in Cumbernauld has been damaged by a fire — St Mungo’s church in Cumbernauld has been damaged by a fire STV News

“Noteworthy features of St Mungo’s Parish Church include the bold pyramidal roof, with apex of which forms a roof light lighting the nave of the church, and above this is a pyramidal belfry.

“The impressive Baltic redwood-lined interior gains natural light from the large central rooflight and clerestory windows.”

Councillor Alan Masterton for Cumbernauld North described the incident as “very sad”.

He added: “Very sad to see another listed building in Cumbernauld on fire tonight with St Mungo’s Church well ablaze, following the fire at Cumbernauld Theatre a few weeks ago.”