SCOTLAND — Residents of Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms National Park have been allowed to return home after firefighters reduced the immediate threat from a major wildfire that had forced the evacuation of the village.

The blaze began near Glenmore on 15 July and continued for around 10 days, eventually affecting approximately 6 square kilometres of land. More than 500 firefighters were involved in the response, supported by helicopters, specialist wildfire equipment and other agencies.

Police Scotland has lifted the major incident declaration, although emergency teams remain active as firefighters continue to deal with affected areas and monitor conditions. Authorities have stressed that the situation still requires caution despite the immediate evacuation threat having eased.

The fire caused particular concern because of its proximity to the Caledonian forest ecosystem, with emergency crews using specialist techniques including firebreaks to slow its spread.

The return of residents provides relief for the community after days of disruption, but the scale of the blaze has renewed attention on wildfire preparedness, emergency resilience and the increasing risks posed by prolonged dry conditions across Scotland.