Confor participates in Welsh Wildfire Resilience Summit

The meeting invited over 40 representatives and stakeholders from the public and private sectors to discuss the risk of wildfire and the lessons learned from this year’s hot, dry summer.

In a written statement, the First Minister said: "I wish to place on record once again our gratitude to all those involved in fighting this summer’s unprecedented fires, and their engagement in today’s Summit. There is an absolute determination to make sure we are collectively prepared for what is likely to be another difficult spring and summer in 2027.

One of the identified priorities for further action was ongoing work to support a strengthened All-Wales Wildfire Board, covering early intervention strategies, risk management, public communications, and multi-agency co-ordination.

Elaine Heckley MICFor, Confor National Manager for Wales, commented: “It was excellent to have such an enthusiastic response to our proposed plan of action to improve coordinated responses to wildfire incidents and prevention measures that could really make a difference to the number of serious outbreaks next summer and beyond. It’s hugely encouraging to have all these voices in one room, working together and listening to each other’s perspectives.

“My thanks go to the First Minister and Welsh Government for providing the setting.

“Confor will continue to explore options to support appropriate training and knowledge exchange across all affected sectors. Collaboration and open communication will be vital in managing future major incidents in the Welsh rural landscape.”