Landowners lose appeal to restrict Dartmoor camping

A wealthy landowning couple have lost a Supreme Court case to restrict wild camping on Dartmoor, in the latest twist in the dispute over public access to the commons.

- ALEX ROSS

A bitter row began when Alexander and Diana Darwall argued that some campers were causing problems for livestock and the environment.

The couple, who keep cattle on a 3,450-acre estate on the southern part of Dartmoor, won a High Court case two years ago to stop wild camping without landowner consent on the national park in Devon. But that ruling was overturned at the Court of Appeal seven months later, and yesterday the Darwalls lost their challenge against it at the Supreme Court.

Mr and Mrs Darwall said they were disappointed by the ruling. South Devon Lib Dem MP Caroline Voaden said she was “absolutely thrilled”, while The Stars are for Everyone campaign group said the ruling was a “relief”.

The case hinged on the interpretation of the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985, which states “the public shall have the right of access to the commons on foot and on horseback for the purpose of open-air recreation”.

Lawyers for Mr and Mrs Darwall said the wording of the act implied only walking and horse riding were allowed. They even argued that having a picnic without landowner permission could constitute trespassing.