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News

Canford Heath Fire

Following a major fire on Canford Heath on Sunday night, the Borough of Poole would like to thank all of those involved with the safe evacuation and return of around 60 households.

Councillor David Gillard, Vice Chair of the Emergency Committee, said: "Ashdown Leisure Centre and staff from the Borough of Poole provided shelter for around 25 residents who were evacuated from their home.  Fortunately Dorset Fire and Rescue Service gave the all clear at around 10.45pm when residents were able to safely return to their homes.  We are very relieved that no one was injured and thank members of the fire brigade, public and the staff involved for their response to the fire."

The fire, one of the biggest fires in Poole in recent years, is estimated to have affected around 75 acres of Canford Heath.  The fire will have had a damaging effect to the heath land and the Council's Rangers are assessing the impact. 

Nick Woods, Ranger Team Leader, Leisure Services, Borough of Poole, said: "Some nesting birds including the Dartford Warbler, Stonechats and Nightjars will sadly have lost their habitats, although the impact would be worse in the coming weeks when nesting will begin.  Reptiles, including the Sand Lizard and the Smooth Snake, will have had some protection as many will have been sheltering underground.  However they may struggle to survive in the burnt area due to the damage to their habitat.  We will be monitoring the Heath over the coming weeks and will relocate any wildlife that has survived the fire and is in need of a new habitat.  Vegetation on the heath will recover in due course, although this can take up to a decade or more."

He added: "Heath land plants have also been affected, although seed from the heather and other plants in the soil will usually germinate rapidly following a fire.  Poole is fortunate to have a long growing season and although full recovery will take a number of years, a covering of vegetation should be soon be re-established.  The area will be monitored to ensure that undesirable plants do not invade the burnt area and that any bare areas do not suffer excessive erosion."

Councillor Don Collier, Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: "It is essential that people are careful not to cause fires on the heath.  In order to protect our Heath Land the Council carries out firebreak cutting work in winter months which helps limit the spread of fire." 

Heather Kitching, Communications Unit: 01202 633060