Barton Common
New Milton Town Council manage this 19 hectare site under Higher Level Stewardship. Barton Common is a very special and notably rare area of lowland heath-grassland, designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
This habitat is an oasis of rich biodiversity including nationally important plant species, birds, insects, butterflies and moths.
Reports
More information about Barton Common is available by clicking on the following links.
View the Barton Common Management Plan
Barton Common Bird Census 2024
Barton Common Insect Survey 2024
Conservation Grazing
The re-introduction of conservation grazing by New Forest ponies to the Common has helped restore the grassland. Some areas are managed by cutting and burning of invasive gorse.
The Forester ponies are normally forest run livestock, owned by a New Forest Commoner. It is important to remember to keep your distance and keep dogs under control. The ponies are semi-feral – they are not pets!
Read this notice about the Ponies
Please help care for our special green spaces and remember the Countryside Code when visiting!