Says Maureen Comber

I was surprised to read the article on Page 3 of the Bordon Herald 20th July, concerning a consultation with regard to the future management of Broxhead Common.

Surprised because I have been waiting for a response from Hampshire County Council's CEO with regard to a letter which I wrote to him on 14th February 2012. It contained a number of questions on this very subject. The Local Government Ombudsman on more than one occasion has also requested that they respond . To date no reply has been forthcoming. Pressure of work is cited as the reason why!

I would like to know why despite all the advice given on Defra's website, this consultation is taking place before the Commoners of Broxhead have been consulted? The Defra advice says,

"No proposal concerning the governance or management of common land should be taken without the consent of the 'owner (s)' if there is one and the commoners, because they represent the legal interests in the common. It is essential, when attempting to promote any activity on common land, to consult with those who have a legal interest before applying to the Secretary of State for consent for works e.g. A number of the agri-environment schemes and other funding options".

Is this lack of observance to the guidance because HCC are fully aware that they will be asked:

Why they have permitted the fencing of 80 acres of the common without application to the Secretary of State which is the only authority that can authorise enclosure.

Why as the Registration Authority they have removed that 80 acres from the register also it appears, without authority.

The Public deserve an explanation before any consultation over management takes place.