AGM were successful at Planning Committee in securing retrospective planning permission for the change of use of land from agricultural to equestrian, as well as the erection of equestrian development comprising stables, dog kennels, manure store, hay barns, lighting and mirrors for sand school and a lunge pen. Plus, the provision of a mobile home for rural worker and indoor riding arena with an outdoor viewing pavilion.
The client had previously had applications for such development refused, but through the submission of a considered and well-argued case, AGM were able to demonstrate that the employment of a full-time yard manager was considered necessary to oversee the health and welfare needs of the horses at the site.
A detailed Landscape and Visual Assessment (LVIA) was also completed and set out that a number of beneficial landscape enhancement measures would be provided. This included the planting of native hedges, native woodlands, the provision of native trees within the paddock area. These measures were proposed with a view of improving and rationalising the development, addressing some of the main reasons for refusal and harm identified under previous applications submitted by the client.
The indoor riding arena measured 65 m x 25 m in size and was required by the client in order to compete at the highest levels of equestrian dressage.
