Colchester’s The Wick was on fire twice this weekend as concerns grow.

CAMPAIGNERS have asked for action to prevent further fires in Middlewick Ranges in Colchester.

During the weekend, three flames broke out in two separate instances at the popular wildlife sanctuary. On Saturday, just before 8 p.m., firefighters responded to the initial call. In a separate incident, two further fires were reported on Sunday around 8.30 p.m.

The Essex Fire and Rescue Service verified that all of the flames were immediately extinguished and that no one was injured. Richard Martin, a Save the Wick supporter, said he suspected the fire on Sunday was planned rather than accidental, and that he couldn’t truly connect it to a grass fire.

Mr Martin stated that the organisation wants to have a proper discussion with the MOD and Essex Police about preventive measures and what they can do to assist with detection.

He stated, “The Middlewick group is working with the MOD and Natural England to develop a proper management plan to help alleviate and prevent fires.”

“All credit to Essex country fire service for such a quick response which helps prevent further damage.”

Mr Martin stated that the removal of vegetation has an impact on Wick’s nightingale and other protected bird species in the sandy area behind the firing ranges.

He stated that if there are fewer nightingales as a result of shrubbery loss, it will be noticeable by early May. Mr. Martin went on:

“We would love to engage further with Essex fire service and Essex Police, I would love to know what investigations are ongoing into the causes of the fires.” A fire service spokesperson described the event on Saturday as follows: “Crews were called to a fire in the Middlewick Ranges at 7.59pm.”

Colchester firefighters responded with two fire engines. “There was probably 20m by 50m of gorse on fire. The fire was gone at 8:30 p.m. The cause was classified as either accidental or purposeful.

At 8:41 p.m. on Sunday, personnel from Colchester, Mersea, and Coggeshall responded to reports of a fire.

According to a representative for Essex Fire & Rescue, when firemen arrived, they discovered two separate regions of fire, each about 25m by 25m in size and fully alight.

Damage: Some of the burnt and destroyed vegetation following Sunday’s fire. (Image via Newsquest)

The fire was extinguished within an hour, and a drone was utilised to confirm that there were no more hotspots. Station Manager Ryan Ainger stated, “Crews did a great job tackling the fire and worked hard to get it under control quickly.”

The incident follows a big fire that occurred on July 12, involving five units and 25 firemen. This was discovered to have been begun purposefully.

 

Middlewick campaigners celebrate their community asset classification in July (Image: Martin Pugh).

Ward Councillor Lee Scordis stated that his homeowners on Speedwell Road are concerned about the possibility of fire and have requested that the overgrowth be chopped back. He praised the suggestions for a new land management plan and stated that if Essex Police are given any role, they will require financial backing.

Mr Scordis continued, “Anyone who sees anything suspicious should report it.” Councillor Dave Harris supported ideas for a new land management agreement and advocated for improved communication among all parties involved.

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