THIS second fire that has devastated the iconic Glasgow School of Art is without doubt a major disaster for Glasgow, Scotland and world heritage. The cultural and economic value of Mackintosh to the country should never be underestimated, and knee-jerk reactions as to its future must be avoided.

As a former child Saturday morning art student and then an architectural student in the building, this is a very sad and emotional time. At this time it seems inconceivable that as we looked forward to its reopening after the 2014 fire, it has been devastated by fire again.

Questions will be asked but it must rise again. I know it it is early days as the building is still smouldering, but it is imperative the Scottish Government takes control of its future and that its future is assured.

We cannot afford at any level to let this be the end of one of the most important architectural icons in Europe, where Mackintosh was held in great esteem.

Matthew Kavanagh
mjkarchitects, Paisley