Drivers face road closures for 'at least one week' after devastating car fire and moorland blaze

Drivers are being warned of traffic chaos as a busy road is set to remain closed for the next week following a devastating wildfire.

The A628 Woodhead Pass in Derbyshire remains closed in both directions as a result of a moorland fire.

The road is closed between the A57 (Hollingworth) and the A616 (Flouch) and has been impacted since a major incident was declared on July 12.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has been responding to the wildfire since June 24, 2026, when the UK was dealing with record-breaking temperatures.

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A major incident declared earlier this month was confirmed due to the "extent of the fire" and the significant number of emergency service resources required.

A multi-agency response remains ongoing, with firefighters working to tackle the blaze, which has burnt much of the moorland next to the A628.

The response includes Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, National Highways, Derbyshire Police and partner agencies.

Fire and rescue services from around the country have been drafted in, while helicopters are also conducting water drops over the area.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has requested that the A628 remains closed to allow emergency services to continue firefighting operations safely.

This is expected to remain in place until at least Monday, July 27, 2026, although this will depend on the progress of the firefighting efforts.

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National Highways has outlined that the cause of the wildfire is currently unknown.

The moorland blaze prompted a car fire, which required a greater response from the emergency services last week.

Images from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue show a burnt-out car on the verge at the side of the A628 and smoke coming from the moorland.

National Highways stated: "If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey."

The transport organisation confirmed that traffic was being diverted via local routes, although they are not suitable for HGVs due to the rural roads and the risk of vehicles becoming stuck.

HGV drivers crossing the Pennines should instead follow the strategic diversion via the M1/M62 or M60/M62, depending on their direction of travel.

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