Suffolk Wildfire Near Nuclear Plants Evacuates Holiday Park
A significant blaze at Dunwich Heath has spread to a nature reserve, prompting a major incident declaration.
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A significant wildfire near Leiston, Suffolk, led to the declaration of a major incident by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. The blaze, which began on July 29, 2026, covered approximately 100 hectares by July 30. Firefighting efforts involved 18 engines and over 100 personnel.
The fire is located in proximity to the Sizewell B nuclear power station and the construction site for Sizewell C. However, EDF, the operator of Sizewell B, confirmed that operations at the power station were not affected. A spokesperson for Sizewell C stated the construction site also posed a low risk due to its distance and intervening watercourses, though they were continuously assessing smoke impacts and road network effects.
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Evacuations and Community Response
As a precautionary measure, Cliff House Holiday Park, which accommodates around 200 caravans, was fully evacuated. Deputy leader of East Suffolk Council, Paul Ashton, described the local community's response as "outstanding." He reported that most evacuated residents from the caravan park had driven away. Approximately 40 individuals were initially accommodated at Westleton Village Hall, but local villagers provided shelter in their homes, meaning no one had to sleep at the hall.
Mr. Ashton stated on Thursday afternoon that the fire was still active and "not under control," but all those at risk had been evacuated. He expressed appreciation for the support offered by the people of Westleton.
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Damage to Nature Reserve
The wildfire has spread into sections of the RSPB Minsmere nature reserve. Footage from the scene showed scorched ground and blackened trees. Adam Rowlands, RSPB Suffolk area manager, described the damage as "unprecedented in living memory" and "quite devastating." He attributed the rapid spread to dry vegetation and drought conditions, noting the fire was consuming pine trees up to 20 metres high.
Mr. Rowlands highlighted that the affected land, managed by the National Trust and RSPB, is a habitat for rare species such as nightjars. He indicated that recovery of the habitat could take over a decade. The reserve had recently seen record numbers of breeding nightjars, Dartford warblers, and nightingales, populations that have been severely impacted by the fire.
The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, pledged full support for the crews tackling the "very serious incident," assuring that Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service would receive all necessary mutual aid and resources. He confirmed the situation was under close monitoring with regular updates.
Questions this report answers
+How many people were evacuated from Cliff House Holiday Park?
Cliff House Holiday Park, with around 200 caravans, was fully evacuated as a precaution. Approximately 40 individuals were initially accommodated at Westleton Village Hall, but most residents drove away and others found shelter in local homes.
+Is the Sizewell nuclear power station safe from the wildfire?
EDF confirmed that operations at Sizewell B nuclear power station were not affected by the wildfire. The station's operator stated that the blaze posed no risk to the facility, despite its proximity.
+What rare wildlife could be harmed by the fire at RSPB Minsmere?
The wildfire damaged parts of RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, a habitat for rare species such as nightjars, Dartford warblers, and nightingales. The RSPB described the damage as unprecedented and devastating, with recovery expected to take over a decade.
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