Commons land

Lincoln is very fortunate in that it has three large areas of common land within the city. This area is open to all members of the public and can be used for play, a leisurely stroll, walking the dog, or even grazing a horse!

Maintaining the Commons

All of Lincoln’s Commons are protected by the Lincoln City Council Act 1985 which states that the City Council ‘has a duty to maintain and to preserve the aspect of the Commons as an open space.’ In conjunction with the Act are sets of byelaws, which are displayed at each Common.

The Commons are supported by a Commons Warden and the Lincoln Commons Advisory Committee, whose members are committed to the preservation of Lincolns historic common land.

West Common

West Common is situated to the north and south of Carholme Road. It is an area of open land giving excellent views of the Cathedral and the historic hilltop. The West Common:

• Has an area of some 100 hectares
• Has been designated as an area of critical asset and nature conservation importance
• Consists mainly of semi-improved grassland
• Represents 11 per cent of the city’s neutral grassland / marsh resource
• Supports a population of skylark 
• Supports a number of sports facilities including football, tennis, cricket, bowls and a golf course.

South Common

South Common is situated in the area of Cross O’Cliff Hill and Canwick Road. It:

• Has an area of some 80 hectares 
• Has been designated a site of nature conservation importance

Cowpaddle

The Cowpaddle is situated off Washingborough Road. It: 

• Has a smaller area of 16 hectares 
• Supports a number of football pitches and changing facilities

Commons Warden

The city’s first Commons Warden, Duncan Hall, started in post in February 2007. The Commons Warden is dedicated to the future enhancement of Lincoln’s Common Land.

The role of the Commons Warden

• Patrol the Commons (alongside the Urban Rangers)
• Issue fixed penalty notices for dog fouling and littering
• Watch out for anti-social behaviour and illegal use of the commons
• Make sure the commons are well maintained
• Meet and talk to the users and non-users of the commons
• Meet environmental groups and commons advisory panel