Dunwich Heath wildfire no longer a major incident, but caution advised

The Major Incident status of the Dunwich Heath wildfire has been stood down following a recent fire risk evaluation.

Although the designation has been lifted, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) advises that people must continue to stay away from Dunwich Heath.

Firefighters remain on the site, damping down affected areas, monitoring hotspots, and responding to any residual fire activity.

National Resilience support fire crews will begin scaling back from 5pm today, with ongoing operations managed by SFRS.

Continued Fire Precautions

Chief Fire Officer Jon Lacey underscored the importance of remaining vigilant, "Standing down the Major Incident is an important milestone. But I want to be absolutely clear that this incident is not over."

The unique landscape of Dunwich Heath allows fires to remain hidden underground before potentially re-emerging.

SFRS urges people to avoid visiting the heath and respect closures affecting the National Trust, RSPB lands, and paths within the affected area.

Community Support and Safety

While firefight efforts continue at Dunwich Heath, Dunwich village and neighbouring localities are open for business.

Visitors are encouraged to support local enterprises such as shops, pubs, and accommodation providers, while respecting remaining road closures and traffic management measures.

Dunwich Road will reopen today at 5pm, though some traffic controls will persist to facilitate safe emergency operations.

Councillor Tristan Gale acknowledged the scale of the operation: "Every one of Suffolk’s 35 fire stations has contributed. I want to thank everyone who has played a part."

Gale emphasised that the incident is not over and urged continued adherence to SFRS advice.

Recovery Phase

Transition from Major Incident arrangements signals the start of coordinated recovery overseen by East Suffolk Council.

The Recovery Coordinating Group will conduct its first meeting today, with collaboration involving stakeholders such as landowners and community representatives.

Public compliance and support are vital as efforts move toward the restoration of affected areas.

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