We remain on site at Burleigh Street, working closely with technical experts and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to manage and resolve the underground smouldering.

As part of the next stage of works, specialist contractors will shortly begin using heavy machinery to create an access path and install steel piles in the embankment area. This will help contain the smouldering, prevent spread, and help stabilise the ground. Sand has already been placed on some of the affected areas to help with smoke suppression and we will keep this under review. 

Alongside this, we’ll continue with specialist surveys, ground sampling, and thermal imaging to monitor conditions and guide the long-term solution. Once these containment measures are in place, we will move forward with expert-led works to extinguish the underground burning and to prevent it from reigniting.

Air quality monitoring remains in place throughout, no pollution concerns have been identified, and we’ll keep residents updated as the works progress.

Thank you again for your patience while we work to resolve this complex situation.

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.

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