New Forest A31 road reopens after major wildfire

The A31 dual carriageway near Ringwood has reopened following a nearly two-week closure caused by a wildfire that began on August 9. The blaze, which originated from a vehicle fire, spread to nearby heathland, consuming approximately 1.6 square kilometers of the New Forest.

National Highways confirmed that resurfacing of the carriageway is complete, and significant repairs have been made to safety infrastructure, including the installation of 800 meters of new safety barriers and the replacement of 1,500 meters of boundary fencing. These measures are intended to prevent free-roaming animals from entering the road. However, restrictions remain in place: one lane of the westbound carriageway is closed to allow fire crews access to their compound, and temporary speed limits of 40mph and 50mph are in effect on the eastbound and westbound sides, respectively. Permanent repairs are scheduled for September.

The fire caused substantial environmental damage, destroying ancient oak and beech trees, rare heathland, and local wildlife. Forestry England noted that full environmental recovery could take decades. While fire crews are beginning to withdraw, the area remains vulnerable, and authorities have urged visitors to avoid lighting campfires or bonfires.