Residents concerned about frequent fires in 'tinderbox' buildings in Pollokshields, Glasgow

A Glasgow neighbourhood resident has raised concerns about “tinderbox” buildings after a string of fires in the area.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) mobilised four appliances shortly before 4am on Friday to Forth Street in the Pollokshields area of the city after receiving reports of a blaze at business premises.

The flames were contained and firefighters ensured the area was made safe.

But local Tabassum Niamat said the fire is the latest in a “dramatic” rise within the area in the last four years, and has raised concerns that this is down to the buildings being like “tinderboxes”.

Residents are concerned at the frequency of fires in the area. Tabassum Niamat via Supplied

She told STV News: “I’ve lost count of the amount of fires as there have been so many.

“There have been three major fires that displaced countless families in Albert Drive and McCulloch Street.

“There have been isolated residential fires contained to a flat or two again in Pollokshields.

“I would say the last four years in particular have seen a dramatic rise and it is concerning for all of us who live here. The worry is our buildings are like tinderboxes; are the businesses here adequately safe?

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) mobilised four appliances to Forth Street on Friday. Tabassum Niamat via Supplied

“What makes us more prone to fires? There will be a lot of speculation and assumptions, but none of these help in finding solutions.”

Ms Niamat, who is a member of the Pollokshields Community Council, has said she will be raising residents’ concerns with councillors in hope of finding the cause of the fires and ensuring people’s safety.

She added: “It’s more appropriate to work through the channels we already have and have more of a say both as residents and as people who understand that there are no simple solutions.

“We should, however, learn from other cities and countries that do have a more pragmatic approach to dealing with fires and other issues urban cities face.”