Warning to avoid Dunwich Heath due to fire risks following blaze
National Trust urges caution amid ongoing wildfire threats
The National Trust has urged individuals to remain clear of Dunwich Heath until a comprehensive assessment can be conducted post-wildfire, due to persistent threats of further fires.
The conservation charity reported that over 100 hectares of the heathland habitat have been destroyed in a blaze that took hold almost two weeks ago.
The fire service has downgraded the incident from major status, but firefighters continue to monitor and manage leftover hotspots in the affected landscape.
Coastal winds are exacerbating the situation by dispersing ash and debris, with residual heat present in rabbit burrows and a risk of trees with burned root systems collapsing.
The National Trust highlighted the challenges posed by the vastly altered terrain, which have left certain areas unsafe and the beach below hazardous due to cliff instability.
Russell Clement, general manager for the National Trust, commended the efforts of Suffolk’s 35 fire stations and 18 fire services from across the country, stating they “worked tirelessly to tackle this fire.”
Clement added, “Right now… the best way people can help is by staying away from the reserve.”
Unexploded ordnance from the Second World War has been exposed and while some have been safely neutralised, potential threats still need to be addressed.
Despite the closure, Dunwich village remains open, and the National Trust encourages support for local businesses.
A fundraising appeal to support Dunwich Heath’s recovery has raised more than £600,000.