The green expanse of Neatherd Moor in Dereham's east is set to be taken over by the town council, bringing an end to a 113-year agreement. 

Dereham Town Council's heritage and open spaces committee says the council should accept an offer Breckland Council made to take over full management of the moor. 

Breckland would pay the town council £120,000 for taking on the moor's management, ending a 113-year-long agreement which has seen both councils share responsibilities.

The moor has, up until now, been owned by the town council but managed by the district council.

Dereham Times: The management of the Neatherd Moor has been is discussion since 2020The management of the Neatherd Moor has been is discussion since 2020 (Image: Archant)

A town council spokesman said: “Even though Breckland's £120,000 offer does not fully cover the costs of the responsibilities of the Neatherd Moor being transferred, the council felt that it was better for the people of the town for this land’s management to sit with one council, rather than between two.

“The council will accept the offer made by Breckland to take over the management, but will not be doing so until after the summer of 2023.

"The council hopes to either take over from this autumn or at the latest, spring 2024, but this is something we will need to negotiate with Breckland.”

Dereham Times: Paul Hewett, executive member for property, projects and procurementPaul Hewett, executive member for property, projects and procurement (Image: Breckland Counci)

Councillor Paul Hewett, Breckland's executive member for property, projects and procurement, said: “Dereham Town Council approached us three years ago requesting a simpler approach to oversee common responsibilities.

"The sum represents a fair reflection of the maintenance costs in relation to the upkeep of the common, but, as you would expect, not future enhancement costs which are the responsibility of [the town council] should they choose to take on the responsibility for the sole upkeep.

“Having initially made the offer in 2020 we remain committed to this proposal which we believe is beneficial for both Dereham Town Council and those who use the common.”

All town councillors are due to vote on the transfer at their next full council meeting, on February 14.