Review to help secure the future of commoning

A Commoning Review is being launched by the National Park Authority this week to determine the best way to contribute to sustaining commoning on the New Forest.

Commoning is one of the oldest traditions on the Forest. The grazing of livestock under the commoning system shapes the landscape and cultural heritage of the Park.

It is essential in achieving the Authority’s first purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park but its long-term future is at risk.

The review will be commoner-led and will focus on a range of issues including: planning and housing, education and awareness-raising, open-Forest grazing and the needs of young commoners.

The aim of the review is to ensure as many commoners as possible have the opportunity to talk about the issues that are important to them and the challenges they face, in particular, young commoners who face the added challenges of today’s housing market.

The review will be steered by a small group of commoners, including the Verderers of the New Forest, Commoners’ Defence Association and a member of the Authority.

Emma Rigglesworth, Head of Sustainable Development, said: ‘In December 2005, a programme to help support commoning was rated as one of the highest priorities by National Park stakeholders.

‘The importance of this review is to discuss with commoners issues that affect and threaten their livelihoods. It is an opportunity for commoners to tell the Authority how they think we can help safeguard their future.’

The outcome of the review will be in June 2007; in the meantime the Authority will be able to provide practical assistance to the commoning community through staff resources and essential small-scale financial support.

The Authority has already taken steps to support the commoners, with heavy involvement in Forest Friendly Farming and providing money towards five new Land Rover Defenders for the agisters.

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Note to Editors:
For more information on the Commoning Review, contact Emma Rigglesworth, Head of Sustainable Development on 01590 646676.

Media Contact:
Karen Evans, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans@newforestnpa.gov.uk