Suffolk wildfire near Sizewell nuclear plant 'stabilising' after 24 hours

Fire crews battling a large wildfire near Britain's Sizewell nuclear power station have reported that the situation is stabilizing after more than 24 hours. The blaze, which ignited Wednesday evening in Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, had consumed approximately 150 hectares, equivalent to 210 football pitches, by Thursday evening.

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Although the fire is dynamic, it remains stable and Suffolk fire and rescue service is making good progress.

Over 100 firefighters worked to contain the fire, with at least 12 appliances remaining on scene overnight to manage flare-ups and monitor hotspots. A spokesperson for Suffolk fire and rescue service stated that while the fire remained dynamic, it was stable and progress was being made. Efforts included using a helicopter to drop seawater and deploying appliances from the London Fire Brigade.

While the fire is located a few miles from the Sizewell B plant and the construction site for Sizewell C, emergency managers confirmed there was no immediate concern about it spreading to the nuclear facilities. An EDF spokesperson stated operations at Sizewell B were unaffected and that the site had emergency plans in place.

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not affecting operations

Approximately 50 people were evacuated from their homes and a nearby holiday park. Conservationists have expressed concern for rare wildlife in the area, including Dartford warblers and adders, due to the extensive damage to the nature reserve. Local community members were praised for assisting evacuees.

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They’ve been absolutely brilliant at looking after everyone, so I want to stress my thanks and gratitude to everyone involved.