Friday 4 September
Friday 4 September Residents' Briefing
Watch the latest daily briefing: Residents' briefings.
Wednesday 2 September
Dudley MBC Statement: Financial Support for Residents Affected by the Stourbridge Fire
Dudley Council has released a statement on financial support for residents affected by the Stourbridge fire.
Friday 28 August
Wednesday 26 August
Wednesday 26 August Residents' Briefing
Watch the latest daily briefing: Residents' briefings.
WMFS statement - cause of the Stourbridge fires
Investigations into two fires that rapidly escalated into a major incident in Stourbridge have found that both started accidentally, in fields where agricultural machinery was being used at the time.
West Midlands Fire Service was first alerted to a fire in a field near Racecourse Lane at approximately 1.27pm on Thursday 13 August 2026. A second fire began shortly afterwards in a field near Quarry Park Road/Worcester Lane.
Specialist fire investigators from West Midlands Fire Service, working alongside colleagues from West Midlands Police, have established that farming equipment was being used in the vicinity of both fields immediately before the fires were first reported. The fires were not started deliberately.
Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill said: "Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, whether directly or indirectly, by events on 13 August in Stourbridge and beyond.
"Many people in Stourbridge face having to rebuild homes and lives and, understandably, have questions as part of that process.
“That’s why we are confirming that both fires were not started deliberately. They were accidental.
"I know that many are still struggling to comprehend the scale of damage and personal loss. I'm also acutely aware that this information will not bring those back homes, livelihoods or cherished memories.
“I remain immensely proud of the response from our firefighters, staff and officers, who worked tirelessly in incredibly challenging conditions to protect lives and property.
“I would also like to thank our colleagues in the police and ambulance services, members of the local farming community who assisted on the day, and the many residents, businesses and community groups who came together to support those affected. The response to this incident showed the very best of Stourbridge and the wider West Midlands.
“While investigations continue into the full circumstances of what happened, we wanted to share this latest update as soon as possible. I hope it will go some way towards helping people understand what happened on that exceptionally hot and challenging day.”
Delays in planning applications involving protected trees, high hedge complaints and TPO applications
If you currently have a planning application involving protected trees, a High Hedge complaint, or TPO application, please expect a delay with any consultation or decision. We are currently diverting all our resources into dealing with the affected trees in the Norton / Stourbridge area following wildfires. We would appreciate your patience given the unprecedented demand and will respond to matters in due course.
Monday 24 August
Friday 21 August
Thursday 20 August
Video Update from Cllr Patrick Harley, Leader of Dudley Council
Video update from Cllr Patrick Harley: Watch
Road closures update from Transport for West Midlands
TfWM has announced that:
- Racecourse Lane will remain closed until 9 September 2026
- Worcester Lane will remain closed until 22 Augusut 2026
This is to enable continued work to remove unsafe/damaged trees and to make infrastructure repairs.
Update from Royal Mail
Royal Mail has announced additional support for anyone affected by the Stourbridge wildfire.
Mail is being kept safe at the Stourbridge Delivery Office and residents can also arrange free mail redirection.
Please view the PDF below for further details.
Royal Mail Stourbridge support - Further information (PDF)
Wednesday 19 August
Telecommunications and broadband
Residents affected by the Stourbridge wildfire may have issues with their phone and internet connections. Major providers have been briefed on the affected areas to allow them to carry out checks on their equipment and infrastructure.
Anyone with issues can contact their provider directly - please mention 'Stourbridge fire' in the email subject line:
BT (includes EE, BT Broadband, Plusnet and Openreach providers): Coming soon
Virgin Media: Executive.Team@virginmediao2.co.uk
Youfibre (BRSK): hello@youfibre.com or call 0330 822 2222
Tuesday 18 August
Tuesday 18 August Daily Briefing
Today's daily briefing on the Stourbridge wildfire is now available: Daily briefings.
Important insurance information for residents affected by the Stourbridge fires
We understand that the recent fires in Stourbridge have had a significant impact on residents, families and businesses, and we appreciate that this is an extremely difficult and distressing time for those affected.
To help residents navigate the next steps, Dudley Council has been in contact with the Association of British Insurers (ABI), which has provided guidance for anyone whose property or possessions have been affected by the fires. If you have suffered damage to your home, belongings or business premises, you should contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to notify them of your circumstances and begin the claims process.
The following information, provided by the ABI, outlines the support available and the steps you should take when contacting your insurer.
ABI wildfire guidance
If your home or property is in the affected area, the ABI advises:
- The most important thing is to stay safe. Monitor official warnings closely and follow guidance from the Fire and Rescue Service, Local Authority or other emergency services.
- If your property has been affected, contact your insurer as soon as it is safe to do so. They will be able to explain the claims process, provide practical support and help you understand what assistance may be available under your policy.
- Standard home insurance policies typically cover damage caused by fire, including wildfires, and your insurer can also offer support and advice to help you get back on your feet. This can include making emergency payments and helping to repair or rebuild damaged properties.
- Cover for items in your garden may vary. For example, some policies include cover for garden furniture, trees, hedges, lawns, and fences, while others do not. If you’re not sure what’s included in your policy, speak to your insurer who can help.
- Most home insurance policies will also provide alternative accommodation where a property has been damaged and is no longer safe to live in.
- If you are evacuated as a precaution and your property has not been damaged, temporary accommodation is typically arranged through the Local Authority.
- If you’re unsure exactly what is covered in your policy, check your documents or speak to your insurer.
- If you do not have insurance, you should contact your local authority or the Red Cross, which may be able to offer support following a fire.
If your business has been affected:
- Contact your insurer or broker as soon as possible.
- Depending on the circumstances and the cover in place, your insurer or broker may be able to provide support such as emergency payments, loss adjusters and assistance with repairs and reinstatement to help you recover as quickly as possible.
- Many business insurance policies cover fire damage to insured buildings, stock, equipment and machinery, although cover will depend on the terms, limits and exclusions of the policy.
- If you have business interruption insurance, it may cover loss of income and certain ongoing costs if your business is forced to close because of damage to insured premises.
- Some business interruption policies may also help cover the cost of temporary alternative premises while repairs are carried out.
- Depending on your policy, some will also cover costs if your business cannot operate because of evacuation orders, road closures or restricted access to the area.
- If you’re not sure what is covered, check your policy or speak to your insurer or broker.
For homes and businesses that have been damaged:
- Speak to your insurer before carrying out significant clean-up or repair work unless immediate action is needed to protect people or prevent further damage.
- Keep records of any damage, including photographs where possible, and retain receipts for emergency expenses or temporary measures.
- Unless they are a safety hazard, do not dispose of damaged items until your insurer has advised you.
Helping to keep our communities and wild areas safe:
- It’s important we work together to reduce the use of all avoidable ignition sources in high-risk areas, and ensure they are used carefully and appropriately at all times.
- Always follow guidance from the local Fire and Rescue Service on how to prevent and protect yourself against the risk of fire.
- Wildfires can be caused by improperly disposing of flammable items such as cigarettes, littering reflective materials or glass, or leaving campfires and BBQs unattended. More information on how to protect and prevent against wildfires from the National Fire Chiefs Council can be found here and here.
- Homeowners can take steps to protect themselves and their homes from some of the avoidable risks of fires. This includes:
- Make sure your property has the correct fire safety equipment. Smoke alarms are a must for both homes and commercial properties. Make sure they are regularly tested to ensure they are working properly.
- Clear any dry vegetation (dead leaves, twigs, branches) from around the house. Keep lawns and grasses short.
Clean gutters regularly. - Take extreme precaution when having any barbeques or bonfires, and never leave them unattended.
- Store firewood at least 10m away from the property if possible.
- Regularly check garden buildings with electrics and make sure no items are left plugged in and unattended if high room temperatures could cause heat related electrical breakdown.
- Have a fire escape plan and make sure all occupants are aware of the plan; keep potential fire exits unblocked to allow easy access.
You can find more information and frequently asked questions on fire damage on the ABI's website here.
Norton Fires: Update for Affected Residents
We continue to support residents affected by the Norton fires and would like to provide the following update:
Immediate Property Support
We have been carrying out regular door-to-door visits to identify residents who may require immediate assistance with boarding up small openings to their properties. If we have not yet been able to speak with you and you require this support, please contact us on 0300 555 8283.
Insurance Advice
Before disposing of any damaged items, please ensure you have spoken with your insurance provider. We also recommend retaining photographic evidence and any other documentation that may be required as part of your insurance claim.
Security Measures
We are working closely with insurers and partner organisations to secure affected areas where necessary. This includes the installation of fencing and other safety measures, with the majority of these works expected to be completed over the coming days.
Electricity Supply
We understand that electricity supplies have now been restored to properties in the area. If your property is still without power, please contact National Grid on 0800 096 3080.
Housing Support
If you would like to discuss any current or future housing support needs, please contact Dudley Council on 0300 555 2345.
Food Deliveries
Food deliveries can now be arranged and carried out as normal.
Resident Support
Support remains available at Stourbridge Town Hall, which is open daily from 8.00am to 6.00pm. If you require support outside of these hours, please contact Dudley Council on 0300 555 8283.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as recovery work continues. We will provide further updates as they become available.
Waste Interim Arrangements for Residents Affected by the Fire in Ounty John Lane, Brunswick Gate, Racecourse Lane, Quarry Park Road and Landsgate
Perishable Goods – a waste collection vehicle will be visiting the five affected streets between 2pm and 4pm between Monday 17 August to Friday 21 August for residents to dispose of damaged fridge/freezer contents or food that has been exposed to smoke, heat or water contamination.
Skips – will be provided for residents to assist in disposing of small fire damaged items only. The arrangements and location of these skips will be advised shortly.
Larger Bulky Items – the removal of larger fire damaged bulky items can be arranged by contacting Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345. Please check with your respective insurance companies that these items can be removed prior to arranging this.
Garden Waste – small items of fire damaged garden waste can be disposed of in your green wheeled bin. Please do not put fire damaged fence panels in your green bin. Your next scheduled garden waste collection is Wednesday 26 August
Recycling and Food Waste – the next scheduled collection on Wednesday 19 August will take place as normal
Wheeled Bins, Recycling Bags and Kerbside Food Caddies – waste recycling receptacles damaged as a result of the fire can be replaced free of charge. Please contact either Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345 or alternatively email waste.management@dudley.gov.uk
Important Update: Stourbridge Town Hall Opening Hours
From today, residents affected by the Norton fires can access support at Stourbridge Town Hall, which will be open daily from 8.00am to 6.00pm.
Council staff will be available during these hours to provide assistance and support to those who need it.
If you require support outside of these hours, please contact Dudley Council on 0300 555 8283.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this ongoing response.
Monday 17 August
Item donations
We have received an overwhelming response from residents, businesses and community groups wishing to help those affected by the incident.We currently have substantial supplies of clothing, food and other essential items. Thank you for your continued generosity and support, but please we ask for no more of these donations until further notice.
Please follow Dudley official channels for any future requests for donations.
Sunday 16 August
Stourbridge Golf Club meeting point to close at 10pm, reopening at 8am Monday 17 August
West Midlands Fire Service has announced that, for resident safety, the Stourbridge Golf Club meeting point will close at 10pm tonight, reopening at 8am tomorrow, Monday 17 August.
Free mental health support for residents impacted by the local wildfires
Residents who may be struggling with their mental health following recent events can access free, qualified mental health support through local organisations offering immediate access to counselling and therapeutic support for both adults and children.
Early intervention can play a vital role in helping people cope with trauma, anxiety, stress and emotional distress. Residents do not need to wait for a referral to access the support being offered.
Two local organisations have offered free support to residents:
Neuro by Nature Therapy
Qualified therapeutic support provided by Claire Betson.
- Website: Neuro by Nature Therapy
- Email: neurobynaturetherapy@gmail.com
The Fine Collective
Qualified mental health and wellbeing support coordinated by Ruth Hill in partnership with the WHAT Centre, Stourbridge.
- Website: The Fine Collective
- Email: thefinecollective24@gmail.com
Residents experiencing mental health difficulties are encouraged to seek support as early as possible.
If you are in immediate crisis or believe there is a risk of serious harm, please contact NHS 111, your GP, or 999 in an emergency. Please contact your GP or residents can self-refer to NHS talking therapies.
The council would like to thank both organisations for their support of local residents during this difficult time.
Please note these services have independently and voluntarily offered support to residents. The information is shared for awareness only and is not a Dudley Council commissioned service.
Amber zone - welfare and support
This evening, multi-agency teams (Dudley Council, West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service) are carrying out door-to-door visits to properties within the amber zone to check on residents' welfare and identify any immediate support needs, including whether temporary boarding up of properties is required.
Where residents have already been advised by their insurers that boarding up will take place, officers will discuss with them whether any additional measures are needed tonight to help ensure the security of their property.
We will continue to provide further updates with advice, guidance and support.
Norton Fires - update on waste collections
Dudley Council continues to support residents and will be providing additional waste collection and practical assistance over the coming days.Our immediate priority is to help residents who have returned to their homes and need to safely dispose of perishable food and other items that may have been affected.
However, we strongly encourage residents to exercise caution before disposing of any damaged belongings that may be required as evidence for insurance purposes. If you believe you may need to make an insurance claim, please contact your insurer first and, where possible, take photographs of any damaged items before disposal.
The Council will provide clear advice and guidance to residents on how best to manage waste and household items while protecting their interests should they need to pursue an insurance claim over the next few days
We recognise that this is a very difficult time for many residents and are committed to providing practical support. Additional arrangements for waste disposal and collection will be made available where appropriate, with further details to be shared over the next few days.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we continue to support the community.
Mental health support
For urgent mental health support, please contact NHS 111 and select option 2. Anyone struggling in the coming days and weeks should contact their GP or can self refer to NHS Talking Therapies.
Road opening update
If your road is NOT listed below, you can return to your home. You do not need to attend Stourbridge Golf Club for confirmation:
- Brunswick Avenue
- Landsgate
- Ounty John Lane
- Quarry Park Road
- Racecourse Lane
Follow West Midlands Fire Service for more road updates.
List of pharmacies open today
|
Pharmacy |
Saturday |
Sunday |
|
Peak, Lion Health |
9am – 5:30pm |
Closed |
|
Swinford Pharmacy |
9am – 12 noon |
Closed |
|
Day Night Pharmacy Lye |
9am – 9pm |
10am – 4pm |
|
Brierley Hill Pharmacy (Brierley Hill Health and Social Care Centre) |
5pm-9pm |
9:30am-10:30pm |
|
Boots Merry Hill |
9am – 6pm |
11am – 5pm |
Broadway Pharmacy are opened on Sunday but only for direct referrals from St John’s Ambulance
Update on Waste and Recycling for residents returning to their properties
As residents return to their properties, we will be carrying out a special collection of perishable waste only.
Please place perishable items at the kerbside, either:
- Bagged securely, or
- In your wheelie bin.
Examples include:
- Food waste
- Defrosted fridge and freezer contents
- Other spoiled or perishable household items
Please note: We will not be collecting bulky waste, household rubbish, furniture, electrical items, or any other non-perishable waste today. Collections are limited to perishable goods only.
Thank you for your cooperation as we work to support affected residents.