Legal challenge over Dartmoor grazing begins at High Court

A High Court case begins today (Tuesday 15 July) examining Dartmoor Commoners’ Council’s legal responsibilities in managing livestock grazing on Dartmoor.

The case is taking places from 15-16 July.

The judicial review, brought by environmental group Wild Justice, is being heard at the Royal Courts of Justice in London over two days.

It focuses on areas of Dartmoor designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), and whether the council has a legal duty to consider environmental impacts under the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985 and other conservation laws.

A judge previously granted permission for the case to proceed on eight grounds. 

The grounds of the claim covered areas such as overstocking, conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty of Dartmoor. 

The outcome could influence how grazing is managed across Dartmoor in the future.

The hearing will be held at the Royal Courts of Justice in London and judgment is expected to be reserved until a later date.

Chris Packham, television and wildlife presenter is a co-director of Wild Justice.