Cairngorms wildfire cordons to be reduced as re‑opening plans finalised

The wildfire that broke out near Ryvoan Bothy in the Cairngorms National Park on 15 July has burned an estimated 25 sq km and prompted the deployment of more than 500 firefighters. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) reports that six fire appliances and around 30 firefighters remain on site, supported by helicopters and heavy machinery to clear trees and dig peat trenches.

Plans are being finalised for a staged reduction of the incident cordons around the Glenmore area. Under the new arrangement, people working at the Refuel event at Badaguish and those staying on the event grounds will be allowed past the Coylumbridge checkpoint from 4 August, provided they have a valid ticket or site access. The multi‑agency partnership – involving SFRS, Police Scotland, Highland Council and Forestry and Land Scotland – will continue to manage road closures, walking routes and public safety while signage guides the reduced access zones.