Uplands and Peatbogs

Upland areas above Blaenavon and The British are home to a variety of habitats, including heather and bilberry, ponds, marsh and peat bogs. 

If managed correctly they can slow the flow of water down to lower areas and reduce the impact of floodwater. 

Peat bogs that are in good condition can also store carbon – a key contributor to climate change. 

They also provide scenic walks, supporting physical and mental wellbeing. 

The council leads the South-East Wales Resilient Uplands project which aims to improve land management, water quality, grazing opportunities, biodiversity and carbon storage. 

Between November 2023 and March 2025, we worked with Gwent Police to tackle illegal off-roading in the area, which damages the local eco-system.  

Common Land

Much of the common land in Torfaen is precious semi-natural moorland habitat which has been managed by people for thousands of years.  

Grazing and annual management, including bracken control, cutting and controlled burning, are all important elements in keeping moorlands healthy. 

All common land has an owner. The majority is owned by private individuals and organisations. Where there is no known owner, the relevant local authority has the right to protect the common from deterioration or misuse.  

Commoners are usually farmers who possess the right to graze livestock. However, this right is tied to a property and not an individual which is why most rights of common are attached to farms lying close to the common land.  

The number and type of livestock each commoner is allowed to graze is set out in a legally binding commons register. Only registered commoners have grazing rights, no one else is allowed to put stock onto the common. 

The register of common land is held by the council.