A628 - Off strategic network incident

The A628 Woodhead Pass remains closed in both directions due to a major wildfire in Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has been responding to the wildfire since 24 June 2026. A Major Incident was declared on 12 July due to the extent of the fire and the significant number of emergency service resources required.

A multi-agency response involving Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, National Highways, Derbyshire Police and partner agencies remains ongoing. Firefighting operations continue with support from fire and rescue services from across the country, together with helicopters conducting water drops.

The A628 remains closed at the request of Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service to allow emergency services to continue firefighting operations safely. The closure is expected to remain in place until at least Monday 27 July 2026, although this is subject to operational progress.

The cause of the wildfire is currently unknown.

Diversion advice

Traffic is being diverted via local routes. However, these routes are not suitable for HGV traffic due to their rural nature 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.

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. 

Further information is available from National Highways via our regional X feed. 

Our 24/7 contact centre team is also available to provide up to the minute information on 0300 123 5000.