A CALL for a ?sensible long-term solution? for the management of Chagford commons has come from the Open Spaces Society. The OSS campaigns to protect common land, village greens, open spaces, public paths and people?s rights to enjoy them. They have submitted a strong objection to proposed cattle-grids around the Chagford commons on Dartmoor. Kate Ashbrook, the society?s general secretary, said: ?These commons are lovely open spaces of historic and cultural value, much loved and enjoyed by the people of Chagford and the many visitors to the area. The effect of placing cattle-grids at the proposed locations will be to enclose the commons completely. This could well lead to deterioration in their character, with some parts being overgrazed while others could be undergrazed and become scrubbed over, to the detriment of wildlife and public access. The proposed cattle-grid and associated fencing at Langaford bridge will be an unsightly blot at a much loved beauty spot.? The society says that consideration should be given to reverting to burning gorse, mowing bracken and stocking the commons at the right level. The proposed cattle-grids at Langaford Bridge, Higher Stiniel and Weddicott Cross, will be considered by an independent inspector at a public inquiry to be held on Monday, December 10.
