CONCERNS have been raised about a proposal to put permanent fencing on the Bromyard Downs, which is popular among walkers.

As registered common land, residents who live on the common have the right to graze their livestock on the 114 hectare area but it is also a place of recreation for many.

The Bromyard Downs Common Association (BDCA), which works in partnership with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust to preserve the Downs for future generations, is considering a proposal to put permanent fencing on the Downs so commoners can graze their livestock safely as busy roads run through the area.

Chairman of BDCA, James Hawkins, said the proposal is only to fence off areas of the common land and the idea is to accommodate everybody who uses the Downs.

But David Hendry, who lives on the common, said: "What really bothers me- we live in a democratic society. I don't think enough awareness has been made of this issue."

There is a committee meeting on January 17, and if members approve the proposal then they would need to consult landowner Herefordshire Council.

If the council approve, an application would need to go the secretary of state and there would be a formal public consultation.

But Mr Hendry said he has been told that the application to the government would have to propose to fence off the whole of the Downs, which he does not think is right.

However, Mr Hawkins said the proposal would only be to fence off parts of the common. There has already been temporary fencing on an 18-acre patch last year, he said.

But Mr Hendry added: "I am not able to quantify it but many people come to the Downs from all over the Midlands for the day or short breaks. There are local caravan sites particularly used by dog owners because of the advantage of being able to walk their dogs and enjoy the beauty of the Downs.

"As a result less people would come to Bromyard thus reducing trade in the town."

Bromyard Downs Common Project manager, Hannah Welsh, from the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, said there is an amazing mix of habitats on the Downs and grazing is much more beneficial for that type of habitat.

She said they held a information evening to gather feedback and thoughts from local people but added: "It is very much at the beginning. I know people feel like there isn't enough publicity but we have not go to that point yet."

The BDCA committee meeting is on January 17 at 7.30pm at The Falcon Hotel, Bromyard.