Greenham & Crookham Commons: Vehicle code of practice

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From time to time commoners, graziers, conservation volunteers, contractors and others may be given permission to drive on the common. All such permissions are granted on the understanding that drivers will adhere to this code of practice.

Code of practice for the use of vehicles on the Common

Greenham and Crookham Common Commission, August 2010


  1. No unauthorised use of vehicles on the Common.
  2. Permission to use a vehicle on the common is granted by the landowner, it is not a right.
  3. Any breaches of this code can lead to an individual's permission being rescinded.
  4. In general terms access can be granted to: individual officers of West Berkshire Council and BBOWT staff, commoners exercising their rights, contractors, wildlife surveyors and conservation volunteers. There must be a specific requirement relating to the management of the common or the surveillance and monitoring of habitats and species thereon.
  5. Horse-drawn vehicles may also be granted access for recreational purposes at specific times.
  6. Where permission is granted, vehicular use should be restricted to the main gravel tracks only.
  7. Where livestock are being rounded up this should be done on foot (or on occasion on horseback) rather than by using vehicles.
  8. In exceptional circumstances, when vehicles have to be driven off the gravel tracks, vehicles with low ground pressure tyres should be used to avoid surface damage.
  9. During the bird nesting season (1st March to 31st July) a number of additional tracks will remain off-limits for permitted vehicle users (map to accompany this code will show these areas).
  10. Permitted users must display a valid permit in a prominent place in the front window of their vehicle when on the common.
  11. All users of vehicles should show consideration for recreational visitors by driving slowly and never faster than 30 mph. They should give way to pedestrians, cyclists, grazing animals and horseriders.
  12. Those granted permission to use a vehicle on the common will be assigned a key for a specified period relating to their requirements, they will be asked to sign a copy of this code to indicate that they have understood and will abide by the conditions set out here.