More than 120 firefighters are currently tackling a significant blaze on internationally protected heathland in the New Forest. The fire, described as “devastating” by the New Forest national park authority, started on Sunday after a van caught fire on the A31 near Ringwood.
The affected heathland is considered globally rarer than rainforest and hosts a variety of rare species, including all six UK native reptiles, Dartford warblers, nightjars, and various insects. A spokesperson for the New Forest national park authority stated that it is too early to assess the full extent of the damage.
Hampshire fire and rescue service, supported by neighbouring services, initially deployed 26 fire engines and four water carriers. The fire spread from the vehicle to the central reservation and then into the nearby heathland. On Monday afternoon, 10 fire engines and 13 off-road vehicles, along with drones, were being used to monitor and combat the fire, which is affecting a one square kilometre area.
Forestry England is assisting emergency services, noting that the fire has spread to Bratley Wood and the surrounding area, which includes a Canadian war memorial. National Highways reported significant damage to the road surface, safety barrier, and boundary fencing on the A31 due to the fire and an oil spillage.