Groups unite for long-term recovery after wildfire

Organisations involved in the response to a wildfire have united for the longer-term recovery of the impacted areas, businesses and communities.

The fire in the New Forest, which started on 9 August after a van on the A31 caught fire, affected more than 100 hectares of heathland and led to the closure of the dual carriageway.

With the fire now extinguished and the A31 reopened, the district council said the focus had moved to how to support the affected communities, businesses, and landscape.

It said it also wanted to "ensure future resilience" to prolonged droughts and wildfires.

The council said it was too early to confirm specific proposals at this stage, and the environmental impact of the fire was still being assessed.

Forestry England's specialist teams are mapping the affected area, which includes large areas of heathland, mature trees and habitats supporting a wide range of wildlife.

The team will draw on their experience of restoring heathlands affected by previous fires to inform recovery plans for the site.

The existing Public Space Protection Order continues to prohibit fires, barbecues and outdoor cooking equipment in the New Forest.

Officials are encouraging everyone who lives in, works in or visits the New Forest to help reduce the risk of further wildfires, particularly during periods of hot, dry weather.

The council said the work would also consider the impact on local communities and businesses, including those affected by the A31 closure and disruption to tourism and passing trade.

Organisations will use evidence from businesses and communities to understand the scale of the impact and identify where partners can provide support.

Councillor Jill Cleary, leader of the council, said: "Our priority now is to work together to support our communities and local businesses, assess the damage to our environment and infrastructure, and learn from what has happened so that we can strengthen the New Forest's resilience to future wildfires."