The New Forest fire has led to the closure of the A31, causing significant disruptions for local businesses and travelers. Find out the latest updates and how to navigate the situation.
The New Forest fire, which began on Sunday, has grown to cover an area equivalent to about 230 football pitches, leading to the closure of the A31 between Southampton and Bournemouth. This closure, which is expected to last until at least August 20, has had a profound impact on local businesses and travelers.
The fire, which started in a van on the A31, quickly spread to nearby heathland, prompting the closure of the major route. Local businesses, including Hockey’s Farm Shop in South Gorley, have reported significant losses due to the disruption.
Jonathan Stainton-Burrell, the owner, described the impact as “painful” and expressed concern for the 65 local suppliers who provide produce to his shop.
The Scale of the Fire and the Response
The fire has grown to approximately 1.6 square kilometers, requiring the deployment of 169 different fire appliances from 93 fire stations.
Firefighters have spent nearly 10,000 hours battling the blaze, with the support of various partners. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Rob Cole emphasized the ongoing efforts and thanked the Control Room teams for their management of resources.
The damage to the A31 is extensive, including the need to replace at least 1,000 meters of boundary fencing, resurface the road, and repair several hundred meters of vehicle restraint barriers. The closure has led to significant traffic diversions, with motorists advised to follow specific routes to avoid the affected area.
Travel Advisories and Impact on Bournemouth Airport
Bournemouth Airport has issued a travel alert advising passengers to allow extra time for their journeys due to the A31 closure. The airport remains open, but the closure of the primary route has caused widespread gridlock on alternative routes. Passengers are urged to leave exceptionally early and follow signposted diversions.
The airport has emphasized that while flights are operational, the severe traffic delays pose a significant threat to travelers’ schedules. Drivers are advised not to rely on GPS shortcuts through minor gravel tracks, as many are blocked or restricted for emergency vehicles. The airport’s passenger advisory explicitly warns against using the A31 dual carriageway through the New Forest.
Diversion Routes and Emergency Response
For westbound motorists, the diversion route involves exiting the M27 at Junction 2, joining the A326, and heading southbound on the A35 through several towns before re-joining the A31. Eastbound motorists are advised to exit the A31 at Ashley Heath roundabout, continue south on the A338, and follow the A35 back to the M27.
The emergency response to the fire remains a large-scale, multi-agency operation. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service crews are working tirelessly to bring the flames under control. The fire has affected several local roads, including the A31, A338, A326, and various minor tracks, which are either closed or restricted to prioritize emergency vehicle access.
The ongoing efforts of firefighters and the advice from Bournemouth Airport highlight the importance of staying informed and following official guidelines to navigate the situation safely.
