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Written question asked by Lord Lexden (Conservative) on Monday, 10 October 2016, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 October 2016. It was answered by Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Conservative) on Monday, 24 October 2016 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Village Greens

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what consideration they have given to amending section 29 of the Commons Act 1876 to ensure that a parish council which erects a bus shelter on a village green is not liable to prosecution.

Answer

Town or village greens are an intrinsic part of the English community and from their earliest use have been a place where communities come together, celebrate fairs and festivals and take part in sporting and social activities. The Commons Registration Act 1965 provided for town or village greens to be registered and to secure permanent protection.

Town or village greens are protected under section 12 of the Inclosure Act 1857 or section 29 of the Commons Act 1876 which means that works may not be carried out which could damage the green or interrupt its use as a place for exercise and enjoyment.. The Government has no plans to amend section 29 of the Commons Act 1876 but a Parish Council may carry out works where they would improve the enjoyment of the green and have received any other necessary planning permissions from the local planning authority.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2124
Session
2016-17
Related items
Village Greens
Wednesday, 9 November 2016
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Bus services Facilities Prosecutions Parish and town councils Village greens
Legislation
Commons Act 1876
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk