Residents who were evacuated from the village of Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms have been allowed to return home after firefighters brought a significant wildfire under control. Police Scotland has lifted the major incident declaration, stating that the immediate threat to properties has passed.
The wildfire, which broke out in the Cairngorms National Park, prompted the evacuation of several homes on Tuesday as flames spread across moorland and forested areas. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews, assisted by helicopters and specialist teams, have been battling the blaze for days. While the fire is now contained, emergency services remain on site to monitor hotspots and prevent reignition.
A spokesperson for the fire service confirmed that operations are ongoing to fully extinguish the fire, with firefighters using beaters, blowers, and water to tackle remaining hot spots. The cause of the wildfire is under investigation, though dry and windy conditions are believed to have contributed to its rapid spread.
The evacuation order affected properties in the Nethy Bridge area, a small community popular with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Residents were advised to leave their homes as a precaution when the fire approached within dangerous proximity. Many sought shelter with family or at a rest centre set up by local authorities.
One couple who remained in their property during the evacuation criticised the official response, comparing it to « closing the door now that the horse has bolted ». They argued that more preventative measures could have been taken earlier, including better land management and earlier deployment of aerial resources. Local councillors have called for a review of the emergency response, stressing the need for improved communication between agencies and residents in rural areas.
The Scottish Government has acknowledged the efforts of firefighters and urged the public to remain vigilant, especially during periods of dry weather. Ministers have highlighted the importance of avoiding outdoor fires, discarding cigarettes carelessly, or using barbecues in countryside areas where the risk of wildfire is high.
The Cairngorms wildfire comes amid a series of similar incidents across Scotland and the wider UK, as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of such events. Environmental groups have warned that peatland fires, in particular, release large amounts of carbon dioxide and damage fragile ecosystems. The Scottish Parliament has previously debated measures to improve wildfire preparedness, including funding for specialist equipment and community education campaigns.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring the fire does not flare up again. Residents returning to Nethy Bridge have been advised to stay alert and follow instructions from emergency services. Many have expressed relief at being able to go back, though the smell of smoke and sight of scorched landscape serve as a reminder of the danger that came close to their homes.
