A property had a “close call” as another large wildfire spread near Cymmer in Porth on Monday evening. The fire is under control, but Cymmer Road remains closed between the recycling centre and Dina's Flats.
Fire under control but close to properties
Councillor Ros Davis for Porth shared at around 8pm that the fire is “under control”, but that the blaze came close to properties. She said: “At least this fire is beginning to die down at the Porth end. I was concerned about Cae Mawr Gardens but have spoken to the Fire Service who have reassured me that the situation at that end is under control: 'Not out but under control.' Appliances are on standby should the situation change.”
“Looking across the valley from Cemetery Road, we can see that one property further along Cymmer Road has had a close call. Fire appliance are still protecting them.”
Road closed and police at scene
Cymmer Road is still closed between the recycling centre and Dina's Flats. A spokesman for South Wales Police shared that officers are at the scene at Bronwydd Park.
The spokesman said: “The road is currently closed in both directions between Community Recycling centre, Cymmer Rd, Porth and the Dinas Flats on Dinas Road. It is expected to remain closed for some time; please avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible. We're grateful for your patience.”
MP expresses anger over repeated fires
Sir Chris Bryant MP, who represents Rhondda and Ogmore, said he is “deeply angry” to see ongoing fires in his constituency including the one in Porth. Another is ongoing in Maerdy as of Monday evening.
He said: “I am deeply angry to see more mountain fires tonight. As a result, there are road closures in place causing more disruption for residents. After weeks of fires across our communities, our firefighters and emergency services should not have to be heading back out again, putting themselves in danger and spending yet more time tackling fires that devastate our mountains and wildlife.”
“These fires are not harmless. They spread rapidly, threaten homes, damage the landscape for years to come and place enormous pressure on the emergency services.”
He added: “To every firefighter, and emergency service responder tonight, thank you. You should not have to be doing this again. Please, everyone, take care and think about the consequences of anything that could start a fire. We cannot keep putting our emergency services, our communities and our mountains through this.”
Councillor Davis also urged caution, saying: “If you are concerned about fires and there is a risk to people or property, always dial 999.”
