April 2023 –

Dartmoor Preservation Association Applauds Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Decision to Appeal High Court Backpack Camping Ban

The Dartmoor Preservation Association (DPA) is delighted that the Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) has confirmed that they are appealing the High Court decision regarding backpack camping on Dartmoor. The move comes after leave to appeal was granted by the Court of Appeals at the beginning of April, and is fantastic news to the DPA and other organisations who have campaigned against the erasure of the right to backpack camp responsibly in the area. 

In response to the news, Tom Usher, CEO of the Dartmoor Preservation Association stated: “This is an excellent decision by the board members of DNPA. The massive public interest and financial support offered by thousands of people has been astonishing and we look forward to working with the National Park to keep Dartmoor wild and free for all.”

The DPA remains committed to working with the DNPA to ensure that the natural beauty of Dartmoor is preserved for generations to come. We thank the public for their support and encourage them to continue to follow the progress of the appeal. 

Image: Ross Barrett