Supreme Court Upholds Wild Camping Rights on Dartmoor

Supreme Court Upholds Wild Camping Rights on Dartmoor

In a significant legal victory for outdoor enthusiasts, the Supreme Court has ruled that wild camping remains permitted in Dartmoor National Park, dismissing a challenge from landowners Alexander and Diana Darwall.

The couple, who manage a 3,450-acre estate within the park, previously secured a High Court ruling in 2021 that sought to restrict wild camping without their consent, citing concerns about damage to livestock and the environment. However, this decision was overturned by the Court of Appeal in July 2023, leading to the legal dispute culminating in this week's Supreme Court ruling.

Expressing their disappointment, the Darwalls emphasized their belief that the ruling undermines the role of landowners and farmers in the conservation of Dartmoor's ecosystem. They argued that the protections for the landscape and local wildlife are essential and that unchecked camping poses risks to both livestock and natural habitats.

In contrast, lawmakers and advocacy groups have welcomed the Supreme Court's decision. Caroline Voaden, Member of Parliament for South Devon, expressed her delight, characterizing the ruling as a vindication for those who long believed in the public's right to roam and camp across Dartmoor. She stated, "I hope we can now begin work to extend our right to wild camp beyond Dartmoor." This optimism reflects a growing sentiment among Nature Rights activists, who see the ruling as a stepping stone toward broader access rights nationally.

The case hinged on the interpretation of the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985, which stipulates that the public has the right to access the commons on foot and horseback for recreational purposes. The Darwalls contended that the act's language limited activities to walking and horseback riding only. However, Lords Sales and Stephens, in their ruling, emphasized that the term "open-air recreation" should be interpreted broadly and not confined to those activities. This interpretation effectively includes wild camping and potentially other forms of outdoor recreation.

Supporting the public's right to wild camp, Lewis Winks from the campaign group The Stars are for Everyone remarked, "This verdict is a huge win for thousands who have campaigned tirelessly to retain the right to wild camp on Dartmoor. The ability of one wealthy landowner to temporarily obstruct a right that belongs to the public underscores the flaws in England's access laws, which desperately need reform."

Importantly, this ruling not only affirms Dartmoor's uniqueness as the only place in England where wild camping is allowed without landowner consent but also sets a precedent that may influence similar discussions across the country, particularly in light of ongoing conversations about access rights in other public spaces.

As Dartmoor's natural beauty continues to attract campers and hikers, the ruling provides reassurance that the park will remain accessible for open-air recreation. The Dartmoor National Park Authority has indicated it possesses the necessary powers to regulate camping effectively, further securing the rights of outdoor enthusiasts while addressing any potential issues that arise from significant numbers of visitors.

In conclusion, this Supreme Court ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate between landowners’ rights and public access to nature, with significant implications for similar legal discussions in the future.