Steve Barclay talks to farmers about Dartmoor review

Tom Bradshaw, along with NFU deputy president David Exewood, joined the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to discuss with farmers the independent review led by David Fursdon. 

The review was on the future of Dartmoor's sites of special interest (SSSIs) and special area of conservation (SAC). It was commissioned by the government after opposition from farmers to Natural England plans that would have seen a decrease in the number of livestock on the moors.

Sir Geoffrey Cox MP chaired the meeting, which included a panel with Mr Bradshaw, Mr Barclay,Mr Fursdo and Natural England’s chief executive Marian Spain. The panel listened to NFU member's issues and explained their responses to the review. 

“Today was a fantastic opportunity on the back of the Fursdon review to really look at how we move the discussions forward with a clear sense that there needs to be an independent committee that is able to come forward with the strategy for how the moors should be managed for the future," said Mr Bradshaw.

Tom Bradshaw, NFU President (Image: NFU)

“One of the reflections for me on the Dartmoor review is that we all know that farming is a generational investment, and yet all too often we have short term policy.

“What those members, farmers and commoners on the moor need is the confidence to invest in this transition.

“We need to make sure it is fair and just and that the role of farming and food production is fully recognised in maintaining the heartbeat of these rural communities.

“These businesses are going to need to change, and unless they have long term confidence that funding is going to be available to put the transition in place, then it’s not going to be possible to make the changes required.”

Around 60 farmers had the opportunity to question the panel. They mentioned that the plans coming for Dartmoor did not fit with the viability of their business. 

Devon farmer and NFU county chair, Paul Glanville, added: “Seeing the new NFU president and deputy president talk to local members here and listen to what issues they’re facing on the moors was very pleasing to witness.

“We are pleased to see that the Fursdon review recognises the important role commoning and pastoralism has on Dartmoor.

“The NFU understands the review must be the catalyst for positive, meaningful change.”

Mel Squires, talking to an NFU member. (Image: NFU)

Mel Squires, NFU south regional director, organised the meeting. She said Mr Barclay, Natural England and their officials heard from farmers their desire to work with partners on solutions that are for all. 

“This will be the only way forward to secure the long-term sustainable future both for the moor, and our farming families,” she said.

Following the review the NFU has said the evolution of Dartmoor’s vision, governance, and management needs to involve commoners, Defra and Natural England, and a wide range of other key stakeholders.