A travel warning has been issued for Cannock Chase after a disposable barbecue sparked a football pitch-sized inferno that killed protected wildlife, including toads and adders. The blaze tore through the beauty spot on Thursday, July 30, and has now forced the temporary closure of Chase Road until the 'wildfire severity risk' drops.
Fire Devastates Protected Heathland
The fire destroyed a large area of heathland in Sherbrook Valley, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Fire investigators confirmed that a disposable barbecue was the cause of the blaze, which resulted in the deaths of adders, toads, and other protected species.
Staffordshire County Council has warned that ground conditions remain very dry, and the road, which runs through the park, will stay closed until it is safe to reopen. Drivers are urged to use alternative routes in the meantime.
Council Leader's Statement
Hayley Coles, deputy leader at Staffordshire County Council, said: "Keeping Chase Road closed is not a decision we made lightly. But, with Cannock Chase currently being a high wildfire risk, we must prioritise the protection of our countryside. This didn't need to happen. The fire, which destroyed precious heathland last week, was the result of irresponsible behaviour. When you're enjoying the Chase, help us to protect it by leaving barbecues at home and bringing picnics instead. We'll share an update as soon as it's safe to reopen the route. We'd like to thank everyone for their patience."
Monitoring and Reopening
A council spokesperson added: "Last week's wildfire burned through a large amount of heathland on Sherbrook Valley, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). It sadly resulted in the death of adders, toads and other protected wildlife."
The ground conditions on Chase Road will be monitored closely over the coming days. The road will only be reopened when it is safe to do so, and updates will be provided by the council.
Public Urged to Avoid Barbecues
The incident has prompted renewed calls for visitors to Cannock Chase to avoid using disposable barbecues, which can easily ignite dry vegetation. Instead, the council recommends bringing picnics to enjoy the natural beauty without the risk of fire.
The closure of Chase Road is expected to remain in place until the wildfire severity risk decreases, which could take several days given the current dry conditions. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow diversion signs.
