The organisation is urging the government to provide more support for regional fire operations forums and implement permanent bans on disposable barbecues, stating that seasonal restrictions are no longer sufficient. The summer wildfires impacted a combined area more than three times the size of Hyde Park, affecting internationally important peat uplands and heathland.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced new support, including the use of military helicopters, £25 million for a new Peatland Restoration Grant Scheme, and additional financial support for farmers to fireproof their land. The Peak District National Park alone recorded over 34 wildfires in 2026, impacting transport routes and causing smoke-related issues for local communities. Similar numbers were seen in York and North Yorkshire, including the North York Moors National Park, with a year-on-year doubling of fire call-outs.
Tom Hind, Chief Executive of the North York Moors National Park, emphasised the need to reduce ignition sources and educate the public about risks from campfires, barbecues, fireworks, and discarded cigarettes. He also highlighted the importance of resilient ecosystems through measures like re-wetting, peatland restoration, and strategic firebreaks.
Debbie Stockwell, Executive Director of National Parks England, stated their commitment to working with the government on the England Wildfire Action Plan and with other UK National Parks to ensure a coordinated approach. Paul Walton, Director of Partnerships and Delivery at the New Forest National Park Authority, welcomed the national focus and stressed the importance of learning from this summer's experiences to prepare communities for future risks.
