51AVÊÓÆµ

Moorland Association lodges bid to take Defra to court over heather burning ban

Defra said 'repeated burning' on peatland damages precious ecosystems, but the Moorland Association says heather burning has helped to save lives

Chris Brayford
clock • 4 min read
Andrew Gilruth, chief executive at the Moorland Association, said: "It is about preventing avoidable tragedy by ensuring that decisions on moorland management are made lawfully, transparently and with full regard to evidence and expert advice."
Image:

Andrew Gilruth, chief executive at the Moorland Association, said: "It is about preventing avoidable tragedy by ensuring that decisions on moorland management are made lawfully, transparently and with full regard to evidence and expert advice."

Land managers and gamekeepers have announced they could seek to take the Government to court regarding its decision to extend a ban on heather burning. In September, Defra confirmed it had extended...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

'Frustration' mounts over Defra's revolving door

'Frustration' mounts over Defra's revolving door

Farmers call for the new Farming Minister to get on farm as soon as possible

Rachael Brown
clock 16 June 2026 • 3 min read
Shake-up at Defra: What do we know about the new Farming Minister, Stephen Morgan?

Shake-up at Defra: What do we know about the new Farming Minister, Stephen Morgan?

The third Farming Minister under this Labour Government has been criticised by opposition for failing to speak out on farming issues

Rachael Brown
clock 15 June 2026 • 2 min read
Stephen Morgan appointed Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs

Stephen Morgan appointed Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs

Dame Angela Eagle has been made Security Minister

Alex Black
clock 12 June 2026 • 1 min read