The A628 Woodhead Pass will remain closed in both directions while emergency crews continue to tackle the moorland fire on Tintwistle Moor, near Glossop, officials have confirmed.
Road closed to allow safe firefighting operations
National Highways said the stretch of the Woodhead Pass between the A57 at Hollingworth and the A616 at Flouch would stay shut until at least Wednesday to enable firefighters and specialist vehicles to operate safely on the moorland.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) crews were first called to the incident on 24 June. Analysis from the European Forest Fire Information System (Effis), reported by BBC Verify, estimates the total area affected by the blaze on Tintwistle Moor at approximately 606 hectares.
Operations resume after weather-related pause
Firefighting activity was temporarily suspended on Sunday after heavy rain created "poor visibility and dangerous conditions" for crews working across difficult terrain. Work recommenced on Monday.
"While this has provided some welcome assistance to crews by helping to dampen vegetation and reduce fire activity in some locations... work continues to fully extinguish the fire," said a DFRS spokesperson.
DFRS said teams are working alongside partner organisations to put out remaining hotspots, reduce the risk of re-ignition and bring the incident to a safe conclusion. The Service described the situation as a major incident, citing the fire's scale, the nature of the terrain and the complexity of the response.
Public safety advice and local impact
Residents and visitors have been urged to keep clear of areas affected by the blaze. Firefighters and highways authorities warned that access restrictions and smoke may continue to disrupt travel and recreational use of the moor while operations continue.
Authorities have reiterated simple steps to reduce the risk of further outbreaks:
- Do not visit the affected moorland while firefighters are in attendance.
- Avoid using barbecues or lighting campfires on moorland.
- Follow local road closures and official guidance from emergency services.
The closure of the Woodhead Pass affects a major east–west route across the Peak District and is likely to cause detours and longer journey times. Drivers have been advised to plan alternative routes and allow extra time for travel while the incident remains active.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| First call-out | 24 June |
| Road closed | A628 between A57 (Hollingworth) and A616 (Flouch) |
| Estimated area burned (Effis) | 606 hectares |
DFRS, National Highways and partner agencies continue to coordinate the response. Further updates will be issued as the situation evolves and when sections of the road can be safely reopened.
