A MAJOR BLAZE virtually destroyed a masonic lodge hall, on Apsley Street, Partick, mid afternoon on Friday (23 January.) Fire And Rescue Services were on the scene swiftly. At one stage the flames could be seen shooting out of the roof space of the building, with thick smoke filling the air.
An adjoining Nursery to the masonic lodge (Merkland Nursery) was also saved.

Reports were given of the smoke travelling as far as Hyndland Secondary School, on Clarence Drive, as well as within the nearby Sainsburys in the West End Retail Park where it could apparently be smelled. 


According to one source, it was a category 2 incident, which requires 8 appliances to be in attendance,
as well as an A.R.P. (Arial Rescue Pump.)


However, it was mentioned by sources, that Fire And Rescue Services were initially hampered by low water pressure in the area, as well as the ageing victorian water pipes, which restricted the number of hose reels they were able to use to fight the fire. Putting too much pressure on the ageing water pipes could cause them to fracture. This situation could be improved an hour later, if need be - when Scottish Water could increase the water pressure in the area.   

At the height of the blaze traffic in Partick was diverted by police on points duty, and a section of Crow Road, and other side streets were closed for more than two hours causing traffic chaos. 
Some hours later the remaining structure continues to be cordoned off, and watched by police,
until such times that it can be made safe.    

There have been no reports of any injuries.
It is not known at this stage whether this blaze has been accidental, or otherwise.
Investigations continue.