Get the stories that matter to you sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Businesses hit by the fires at Glasgow School of Art and Victoria's Nightclub will be able to access a fund of up to £5 million.

The Scottish Government will make the additional funding available to Glasgow city Council for firms within the security cordons, and those in the Sauchiehall Street area who have been affected by the fires.

All firms within both the Glasgow School of Art and Victoria’s cordon will receive £20,000 of direct financial support, with other businesses in the area who have been impacted by a fall in footfall eligible for £10,000 of support.

Glasgow City Council will administer the funding, with applications for all businesses open from July 31 .

(Image: Getty)

Education Secretary Derek Mackay said: "The terrible fires at the Glasgow School of Art and Victoria’s are having a significant impact on many local businesses who are either closed or unable to access their premises.

"The sheer scale and lasting effects of the fires on those involved are becoming clear and it is important that businesses are given financial support to help them through this very challenging time.

"This funding will also help minimise the impact on the economy of the city as everyone involved works to help businesses and residents return to their premises as quickly and safely as possible."

(Image: Liam Ross / SWNS.com)

The announcement comes just days after furious protesters demanded access to their homes and firms within the cordon.

Around 30 residents and business owners staged a protest after being left frustrated that they cannot access their property to retrieve possessions.

Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken added: "The Victoria’s and School of Art fires have had a significant adverse impact on businesses at both ends of the street.

"The Council has been working closely with the Scottish Government to facilitate this fund, which we hope will assist those business affected by both events."