Government announce £3m fund to support businesses hit by Cairngorms wildfire

Smoke rises in the Cairngorms amid a wildfire

placeholder image — Smoke rises in the Cairngorms amid a wildfire

Economy secretary Stephen Flynn announced a £3 million fund, to be administered by Highland Council, for firms impacted by the disruption caused by the fire

Scotland’s Economy Secretary has announced £3 million in support for businesses impacted by the wildfire in the Cairngorms.

The blaze hit the area near Aviemore on July 15, with more than 500 firefighters and helicopter support called in to quell the flames.

As of Wednesday, four fire appliances and around 20 firefighters were still on site.

During a visit to the area on Thursday, Stephen Flynn announced a £3 million fund, which would be administered by Highland Council, for firms impacted by the disruption caused by the fire.

The Economy Secretary said: “The wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park has had a significant impact on many businesses, particularly those premises within the cordon that have been unable to trade.

“I want to thank business owners, employees and local residents for their patience and understanding of the necessary precautions put in place by emergency services to tackle the fire and maintain public safety.

“We understand the difficult position that many now face, which is why I am pleased to be able to confirm up to £3 million for the Highland Council to support affected businesses directly.

“This will provide immediate relief for impacted businesses but we will continue to work closely with the Highland Council, HIE and Cairngorms National Park Authority on what further support may be required for the area in the longer term.”

SFRS share images of the scene of the ongoing wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park | Forestry and Land Scotland

An emergency wildfire cordon around a village could be lifted on Friday, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has said.

Road and access restrictions have been in place around the Glenmore area as firefighters tackled the wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) was first notified about a fire near the Ryvoan Bothy, close to Aviemore, around midday on July 15.

So far more than 500 firefighters have been deployed to fight the blaze, which has devastated an estimated 25 square kilometres of land since it started.

SFRS said on Wednesday night that it still had four fire appliances on site, with around 20 firefighters working alongside partners and helicopter support.

Thermal imaging drones are being flown twice a day to identify hot spots in the Glenmore area affected by the Cairngorms wildfire.

This work will continue in areas of difficult terrain for the foreseeable future as work continues to dampen down deep-seated fires.

SFRS share images of the scene of the ongoing Cairngorms wildfire | Cairngorms National Park/Dave Morris

SFRS said planning is under way to potentially reopen the Glenmore area on Friday, subject to the continued firefighting efforts.

The service emphasised that any adjustments to the cordon are subject to change depending on the conditions on the ground, and any reopening is only possible once all multi-agency responders agree.

Highland Council has been engaging with affected businesses in the Glenmore area about the potential to reopen.

When the area has reopened, SFRS said there will be further information and clear guidance on which areas are accessible.

Forestry and Land Scotland and Cairngorms National Park are in the process of implementing a public access management plan for forest paths, biking trails and roads, which will include signage and fencing.