Owner of Glasgow Subway carriages felt 'complete depression' after graffiti vandals targeted carts

The owner of old Glasgow subway carriages said he felt “complete depression” after graffiti artists targeted them days after they arrived.

Joe Mulholland, who owns ten of the orange carriages, bought them with hopes of using them as part of a restaurant and as workshops in the Finnieston area of the city.

But, just days after arriving at the Argyle Street site, the 84-year-old discovered two had been graffitied.

“We locked the gates, put up extra security cameras and lights but they still came in, they ripped out the security lights and continued to graffiti the other carriages throughout the week,” Mr Mulholland told STV News.

In the aftermath of the vandalism, Mr Mulholland said he felt “complete depression”.

Joe Mulholland bought the carriages with hopes of using them as part of a restaurant and as workshops. STV News

“I really felt like what was the point of doing all this if vandals were going to come in and waste what was a wonderful idea,” he added.

The owner said restoring the carriageways to their former glory would cost a “fortune” in materials and labour.

“I’m hopeful we can get back on track within a few weeks after they’ve been cleaned,” he said.

Police Scotland said enquiries into the vandalism are ongoing.

“They are on camera coming in and out of here, and police will be able to identify them,” he added.

Mr Mulholland said he believes the carriages were targeted for clout after a graffiti artist was jailed for vandalising one previously.

“They probably took pictures at it, and this makes them heroes in their own minds, they’re not heroes in mine” he said.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Enquiries are ongoing following a report of vandalism at a premises on Argyle Street, Glasgow, which is believed to have happened between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on Friday, March 21, 2025.”