Home / Environment / New Forest Wildfire Recovery Effort Launched
New Forest Wildfire Recovery Effort Launched
31 Aug
Summary
- Organizations unite for long-term recovery of impacted areas and communities.
- Over 100 hectares of heathland affected by wildfire sparked by a van fire.
- Focus now on supporting communities, businesses, and landscape resilience.
Following the recent wildfire in the New Forest, which impacted more than 100 hectares of heathland, various organizations are collaborating on a long-term recovery strategy. The blaze originated from a van fire on the A31, leading to the temporary closure of the road.
With the fire now extinguished and the A31 reopened, the district council has stated that efforts will concentrate on supporting the affected communities, businesses, and the landscape. This includes a commitment to ensuring future resilience against prolonged droughts and wildfires.
Specialist teams from Forestry England are actively mapping the affected areas, which comprise significant heathland, mature trees, and diverse wildlife habitats. Their experience with previous heathland fire restorations will inform the upcoming recovery plans for the site. A Public Space Protection Order currently prohibits fires and barbecues in the New Forest to mitigate future risks, especially during hot, dry weather.
