New Forest District Council (NFDC) is carrying out litter-clearance along the A31 as part of the multi-agency support work that continues in response to the heathland fire, which spread from a vehicle fire on Sunday (9 August 2026).

Council staff started verge litter clearance on site today (Thursday 13 August 2026) and have so far collected five cage vans full of roadside waste.

The work started following the fire management operation, which includes cutting back vegetation along sections of the roadside to help create safer working conditions and firebreaks. This exposed the litter that had previously been hidden in the verge.

Cllr Jill Cleary, NFDC Leader, said:

“As firefighters continue their crucial work, we continue our role in the multi-agency support, with this litter-clearing operation a small example of the practical work our teams can do to help the recovery of the area.

“I would like to thank our operatives for the work they are doing in challenging conditions. It is important work, and it will make a real difference as this area begins the process of recovery.”

The litter clear-up is helping to reduce potential hazards in the affected area, including glass, discarded bottles, cans and other combustible materials exposed by the firebreak and vegetation clearance work.

Stewart Phillips, one of NFDC’s streetscene managers, said, “The A31 can only be litter picked when there are lane closures organised because of the amount and speed of traffic.  But with the road currently closed due to the fire, we can safely do this work in support of the recovery operation, especially to remove any glass and materials which could catch fire.  We can’t use any equipment that could create sparks because of the dry ground and the continuing risk of fire, so the work is being done entirely by hand.”

National Highways has said the A31 is likely to remain closed until at least Thursday 20 August, while firefighting concludes and the road recovery work takes place. Residents and visitors are asked to stay away from the affected areas and follow current National Highways travel advice and road diversion information.

While the A31 remains closed, the rest of the New Forest remains open and businesses across the wider area continue to welcome visitors. Anyone planning a visit should check the latest travel information, but there is plenty of the New Forest to continue to enjoy.