Cairngorms park bosses say wildfire region ‘largely surrounded’

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 today”.On Sunday afternoon, park bosses said the fire, which burnt around four square kilometres at its peak, is largely under control.The park authority announced that the incident remains ongoing, nevertheless, with fire crews and other partners tackling the blaze together.Wildfire burning near Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms National Park in northeast Scotland (Jane Barlow/PA)PA WirePark 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.“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.”A helicopter carrying water tackles the wildfire burning near Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms National Park in northeast Scotland (Jane Barlow/PA)PA WireThe Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said it still has six fire appliances, two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), a wildfire support unit and a water carrier at the scene.A spokesperson said: “There continues to be significant progress, and the 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.“There is further updated information from Police Scotland for local residents and members of the public who have been displaced by the ongoing wildfire.“We remind the public that the area remains closed to visitors and there are still road closures in place.”Read MoreThose 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.