FARMERS who graze livestock on common land in Cumbria could be given further rights if plans for a new ‘commons council’ are realised.

The Federation of Cumbria Commoners wants to set up the body, which would have the power to set and enforce rules for good grazing management and mediate in local disputes.

Four members have been on a fact-finding mission to meet Dartmoor Commons Council and assess how beneficial it would be to set up a similar body.

They returned to the North West in favour of the idea – and hope that local commoners will come forward to help.

Administrator Viv Lewis said: “We came back quite encouraged. Dartmoor has been a council for 24 years and we were impressed.

“We also met people in Bodmin Moor and Exmoor and they said it was about keeping the commons in good health.

“The Commons Act of 2006 allowed for councils to be set up, with statutory powers.

"At the moment in Cumbria, if there are grazers who do not respect others, putting too many sheep on land, or a bull on, for example, you can’t do anything.

“If a council is formed, it can take that person to court or confiscate the animals and so on.”

Natural England is funding work by land agents to develop a case for a commons council – but there has to be ‘substantial suppport’ for the idea.

“We are now looking for associations interested in being in the first round of the process,” said Mrs Lewis.

The work would include identifying commons to be included, clarifying costs and benefits, agreeing rules and determining membership.

Find out more by calling 01931-713335 or see the new website at www.cumbria-commoners.org.uk