The Commons form the largest continuous tract of open heath in Berkshire. The entire common is access land, an important green lung for the people of West Berkshire, and a precious SSSI for a rich variety of wildlife and flora. The Commission is its guardian and manager, with a General Duty under the Greenham and Crookham Commons Act 2002. West Berkshire District Council is the owner of the Commons, and the Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) provide the day to day maintenance and management of the Commons on behalf of the District Council, and working with the Commission. Both the District Council and BBOWT are represented on the Commission.
Beating the Bounds on Greenham & Crookham Commons 13th October 2024
The annual Beating of the Bounds on the Commons will take place on Sunday 13th October at 3pm. This event is free to attend, and anyone is welcome – meet at the Control Tower off Burys Bank Road, RG19 8BZ (parking available) to walk to the boundary marker, ‘beat the bounds’ and return to the Control Tower. The Tower cafe will be open for refreshments. The route is flat and reasonably accessible. A great opportunity to enjoy a walk on the beautiful and historic Commons in the company of other walkers.
For information on other events on the Commons go to Events
Greenham and Crookham Commons Regulations
Regulations concerning the exercise of Commoners Rights have, after due process and consultation, now been formally approved by DEFRA. They will come into force on 13th June 2024. The Regulations can be found here.
Find out more about us
What is the purpose of the Commission?
It is a partly elected and partly appointed body that manages the Common on behalf of the West Berkshire Council.
Want to know more about the act itself?
Read the full Greenham and Crookham Commons Act 2002 at the Legislation website.
