For centuries the Town Moor has provided the green backdrop as the history of Newcastle has unfolded and Tynesiders have gone about their daily lives.
But because it has been an ever-present feature, perhaps it has not been fully realised how special it is to have the large, open expanse of the Town Moor on the edge of the city centre – and especially with grazing cattle. It’s a rare mix.
Now a three-year research project is about to conclude, with the Town Moor a major component of a study into urban commons, their history and value, and what the future may hold. Newcastle University has partnered with Exeter, Sheffield and Portsmouth universities in the Wastes and Strays project, focusing on urban commons – open public land surrounded by built up areas.
