Common Land

Commons and the rights afforded to users are still very important for the agricultural industry in England and Wales. Many farmers depend on being able to use their commons rights to graze and such use is vital to preserve the commons landscape for the future.

Over a number of years, the Rural team has developed an expertise in common land. We assist with the registration of commons rights and can advise on any issue that has arisen regarding the use of common land. We also advise and assist where the landowner wishes to apply to deregister common land.

We act on behalf of a number of commoners’ associations, having helped them with the preparation of legal documentation to set up their association and will advise on a range of issues in relation to commons rights, use of the common, Single Payment Scheme (now Basic Payment Scheme), and of course in Wales the ending of the Glastir scheme and the transition to the Sustainable Farming Scheme and the commons element.