Residents of the Highland village of Nethy Bridge have been given the all-clear to return to their homes after emergency services said a large wildfire within the Cairngorms National Park no longer posed an "immediate threat". The blaze, which has burned for around 10 days, had forced evacuations and a Major Incident declaration from Police Scotland.
Containment efforts and the decision to lift evacuations
Police Scotland said containment work over recent days reduced the risk to nearby communities sufficiently to allow residents to go back. Officials credited a combination of firefighting crews, gamekeepers, contractors and other partners for progress on the ground.
"There is no longer the immediate threat which prompted the evacuation of properties in Nethy Bridge." — Superintendent Judy Hill, Police Scotland
First Minister John Swinney welcomed the development but cautioned that the situation remained serious. He underlined the continuing commitment of the Scottish Government, emergency services and other authorities to tackle the fire until it is fully extinguished.
Requests for additional support and ongoing risks
The Scottish Government made a request to the UK Government for military assistance to provide extra aerial resources to supplement existing assets fighting the wildfire. A response to that request was being awaited.
Local witnesses described dramatic conditions at the height of the incident. Sandy McCook, chairman of the Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council, said the smoke plume had been especially severe, prompting the initial evacuations.
"Apocalyptic is the word for the pall of smoke that was on the go yesterday." — Sandy McCook, Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council
What this means for residents and visitors
- Residents: Those who were evacuated may return but should follow instructions from local authorities and be prepared for possible further changes if containment shifts.
- Visitors: Access to parts of the national park may remain restricted; check local guidance before travelling.
- Health considerations: Smoke can affect vulnerable people; anyone with respiratory conditions should monitor local air-quality advice and seek medical attention if needed.
Police Scotland confirmed the Major Incident declaration has been lifted, reflecting the reduced immediate danger to populated areas. However, both the First Minister and emergency services emphasised that significant resources remain deployed and that the fire continues to be treated with the highest priority until it is extinguished.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration of fire | Approximately 10 days |
| Evacuated area | Nethy Bridge and nearby properties |
| Current status | Major Incident lifted; containment improved but active response continues |
| Requested support | Military aerial assistance requested from UK Government |
Local and national authorities will continue to monitor the situation. Residents are advised to follow updates from Police Scotland and Scottish Government channels for the latest safety information and travel guidance.
