Message to Householders from the Conservators

If your property adjoins our Common Land please be aware of the following:

• Many of these properties have stones or other objects marking the verge edges.
• You should be aware that the land where these objects have been placed is registered common land under the Nettlebed and District Commons (Preservation) Act 1906 and privately owned.
• Whilst we all wish to preserve the commons, the presence of these objects is not permitted, and moreover, they constitute a health and safety hazard – there have already been instances where vehicles have been damaged. The person placing objects could well be liable for any damage.
• If you do have such objects placed on common land please will you remove them forthwith – we do reserve the right to remove these if you do not action this request. We hope that you understand that it is important to alert you to your potential liability.
• We do understand that some people like to keep the common verges tidy, however may we remind you that frequent mowing discourages natural bio-diversity, by destroying all but a few wildflowers.  Please let the verges grow naturally, especially in spring and early summer, and only cut them later on, with the mower blades set to their maximum height.  Even small areas of wilderness will benefit other creatures, such as bumblebees and butterflies.
• If you are considering laying any material on Common Land, for example for access, permission must be sought from the Conservators.
• If you have Common Land on any other boundaries please respect the land and help keep it tidy. DO NOT throw garden rubbish anywhere on the commons.
• If you see any activities such as digging or tree cutting please report this to the clerk for investigation.

Thank you for your co-operation.