Staffordshire road re-opens weeks after devastating wildfire killed animals

A road that runs through Cannock Chase Country Park has finally re-opened a month after its closure following devastating wildfires that killed animals and destroyed habitats.

Staffordshire County Council closed Chase Road between the Camp Road turning and Brocton Nursery at the end of July to reduce the risk of more fires.

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It followed two fires which ripped through 15 hectares of internationally rare heathland in the Sherbrook Valley, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.

Fires in the area have destroyed wildlife habitats and killed a number of lizards, adders and other animals.

Rangers discovered a badger skeleton and burnt nests on the ground with eggs, some of them unhatched.

On Tuesday (September 1) the council said wet weather in the last week and lower temperatures have meant that the road could now safely re-open.

• Read more: Road through country park closed after animals killed and habitats destroyed in fire caused by banned barbecue

“I’m pleased to say, with the wildfire risk now lower, we were able to safely lift the closure on Chase Road this morning,” Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and culture said.

She continued: “Please continue to respect the rules about not using barbecues or campfires at our country parks. We know at least one of the fires was caused by someone using a disposable barbecue.

“You’ve now seen for yourselves the devastating consequences this can have. The Chase belongs to all of us and we all must do our part to take care of it so future generations can enjoy it like we do now.”