Cairngorms wildfire ‘largely surrounded’ after five-days

Cairngorms park officials have said the large-scale wildfire affecting the region is now “largely surrounded”, and expect evacuated residents to be able to return home later on Sunday.

The blaze, which burned around four square kilometres at its peak, has left exhausted crews battling the fire around the clock since Wednesday and raised fears for some of the area’s protected wildlife.

On Sunday afternoon, the Cairngorms National Park Authority said the fire was largely under control, although the incident remains ongoing with fire crews and partner organisations continuing efforts to tackle hotspots.

For Ronan Dugan, an ecologist who grew up in Abernethy and now helps manage land in the area, the damage caused by the blaze has been difficult to witness.

The current image has no alternative text. The file name is: cebf0f56abaf88d3c0c817b17e391776-1784481691.jpeg — A volunteer helps tackle the wildfire

“It’s heartbreaking, in many ways, to see the hillsides, in the blink of an eye, ablaze and going up,” he told STV News.

He is among those who have been helping on the ground.

“We’ve been on the frontline for the past four days since Wednesday. It’s been very much all hands to the pump, getting out there and coordinating effort from various ground teams. It has been a monumental effort from everyone involved.

“But it’s an ongoing situation we will need to monitor. There’s a good chance myself and colleagues will be drafted in to help out and give others a rest next week.”

Estate workers, gamekeepers and landowners joined efforts Ronan Dugan

Ronan said the wildfire is likely to have impacted protected species.

He fears a golden eagle nest may have been destroyed, along with habitat used by capercaillie and dotterel.

“A silver lining will be to see how nature responds to the impact of this fire,” he said. “If we do the right things, I’m sure nature will respond very positively in time.

“With climate change, there’s lots to plan for in the future.”

Ecologist says it's 'likely' a golden eagle nest was destroyed in the wildfire — Ecologist says it’s ‘likely’ a golden eagle nest was destroyed in the wildfire Adobe Stock

Park bosses said resources, including helicopter support, have been integral in battling the fire in tougher-to-reach areas.

Gavin Miles, director of planning and place at the park authority, said: “News from Glenmore this morning is very encouraging, with colleagues from SFRS indicating that the fire is now largely surrounded. This is, though, still a live situation and teams are still very active on the ground, so we are taking nothing for granted at this stage.

“We’re really grateful for the continued efforts of everyone helping fight the fire in Glenmore, and for the co-operation of local residents, visitors and businesses at what I know is a very difficult time.

A helicopter used to water bomb fire-ravaged woodland STV News

“The Ski Road and surrounding areas are likely to be off-limits for some time to come, given the sheer number of people and machinery on-site, but we’re hopeful that residents and campers directly impacted by the exclusion zone will be able to gain access later today.”

Those affected by the exclusion zone can contact The Highland Council’s housing team on 01349 886 691 in the first instance and they will advise on arrangements.

The SFRS said: “There continues to be significant progress, and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) continues to work in partnership with agencies and landowners to build on this, with firefighters continuing to monitor conditions closely and respond where required.

“There are encouraging signs across the affected area, with visible improvements becoming increasingly evident. While this is positive, wildfires can change rapidly and unexpectedly, and it is important that we do not become complacent.”