Update – 13 August 2025

We’ve been closely monitoring the site and can confirm that our specialist contractor, WSP, has carried out detailed drone and heat imaging. Initial findings suggest the fire remains contained within the existing area, with no signs of spread.

The recent warm, still weather has made the smoke and odour more noticeable. As the site contains former coal waste, some intermittent burning and odour can be expected. Initial air sampling in the area has indicated that there is no increased risk to health, but to provide further reassurance to local residents we will undertake further air sampling over the coming days and weeks. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and act quickly if anything changes.

In terms of next steps, we are now engaging with an external consultant who will now undertake an assessment of the site to determine what action we can take to extinguish the existing fire and prevent the spread to any other area.

Work is also being planned to improve fencing around the site to help keep it secure.

Further updates will be provided as we work towards the longer-term solution.

Overview

After attending to the fire, Fire and Rescue carried out inspections including air quality monitoring and levels are within normal range.

The council has assisted firefighters to gain access to the site by excavating some of the tougher vegetation and woodland. It is believed that historic coal waste is continuing to burn underground and, although there are no flames present, ignited coal waste does produce heat. This requires a longer-term solution which will involve specialist expertise to make a full assessment before we can backfill the site.

As a precaution, we have fenced off the affected area and request that residents stay away, particularly as excavation work is ongoing. There is no risk to public health.

Understandably, you may have concerns. Please be assured that the site has been contained and measures have been put in place to abate the fire. We are working with a range of agencies including Scottish Fire and Rescue and The Coal Authority to make further assessments before commencing a longer-term programme of works at the site.

We are continuing to work with contractors to establish the next steps that need to be taken in relation to the fire. Our officers are monitoring the fire on a daily basis which is in line with the advice provided and further information will be published as the council’s investigation progresses.

Some questions and answers below, may be helpful.

Will the fire spread to my home?

There is no risk to residents or their homes.

However, the underground fire requires a longer-term solution and the council will be liaising with specialists to make an assessment of the area to allow access to backfill the ground.

Should we be taking action such as shutting windows?

Scottish Fire and Rescue have carried out air monitoring tests and the air is within normal levels, so there is no public health risk. There is no need to take any other precautions other than to stay away from the fenced-off area.

Is there the potential for trees to come down onto my land?

No. The council’s arbor team has already been at the site and will assess the stability of trees and the surrounding woodland before carrying out any necessary works.

Why are the firefighters wearing masks? Should we be concerned?

You may see firefighters wearing facemasks when working in conditions that require digging out or turning over of debris. This is part of normal standard operating procedures, and there is no risk to homes, public health, or the wider community.

Why is the fire not going out?

Coal waste can burn for a long time and it can reignite and produce heat. There are a number of measures and methods that require to be considered and this is why we require input from specialists to ascertain the best way to extinguish the fire and to arrange a long-term plan for the woodland.

We are in the process of engaging with a range of agencies to ascertain the next steps and we will keep you informed.