Planning is underway to potentially reopen the Glenmore area affected by the Cairngorms wildfire.

 

The Cairngorms National Park, near Aviemore, has been burning for nearly three weeks after igniting on July 15 destroying thousands of acres of moor and woodland around the Glenmore Forest and Loch Morlich.

 

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is carrying out daily thermal imaging drone activity to identify hot spots at the fire-ravaged site which could reopen tomorrow (Friday, August 7), subject to the continued firefighting efforts.

 

The work will continue in areas of difficult terrain “for the foreseeable future” as work continues to dampen down deep-seated fires.

 

Drones are being flown twice a day, with equipment provided by Forestry and Land Scotland and further support from partners at the Cairngorms National Park.

 

SFRS currently has four fire appliances on site, with around 20 firefighters working alongside partners and helicopter support.

 

The fire service has emphasised that any adjustments to the cordon is subject to change depending on the conditions on the incident ground.

 

The Highland Council has been engaging with affected businesses in the Glenmore area about the potential to reopen.

 

SFRS say that when the area has reopened, there will be further information and clear guidance on what areas are accessible and which are not, due to firefighting operations, civil engineering operations on access roads and tracks, and the removal of previously felled and unsteady fire damaged trees.

 

Forestry and Land Scotland and Cairngorms National Park are in the process of implementing a public access management plan for forest paths, biking trails and roads which will include signage and fencing.

 

An SFRS spokesperson said: “Any reopening of the Glenmore area will only be possible once all multi-agency responders agree that all contingencies have been taken to ensure the safety of the public.”

 

Further updates on road closures can be found on the Police Scotland Highland & Islands website and social media.

 

SFRS and partners said they are grateful to the community and businesses for their ongoing patience and support.