News Beat
Local support for ‘wonderful’ plan to build outdoor riding arena
Several residents and the local parish council have given their backing for the construction of an ‘equine ménage’ at Eastgate House Farm at Stoney Haggs Road, in Seamer, near Scarborough.
Alexis Simpson has proposed the installation of an “additional equine ménage adjacent to the existing one to allow for horse exercise and jump practice alongside hosting occasional equine events”.
Local resident, Elaine Keith, said: “I believe it will be a popular venue, and supported by the local equestrian fraternity.
“As a neighbour, I can confirm that my view will not be impacted by the creation of the menage.”
If permission is granted, small-scale equine events would “occasionally occur between March and October and be strictly controlled by the applicant, being invitation only”.
Commenting on the plans submitted to North Yorkshire Council, Laura Rafferty-Trow said: “The proposed development supports local grassroots equestrian sport, particularly due to its proposed size, which allows for a full outdoor showjumping course with an appropriate surfaced area for warm-ups in the existing arena.
“This is a welcome investment given the current economic climate and will support the mental health of a section of the rural community by supporting hobbies, sport, social activities and outdoor time.”
The ménage would be constructed immediately to the east of and adjacent to the existing smaller ménage, and would be 60 metres long and 40 metres wide with a 1.5m high timber post and rail fence.
Another resident, Jane Hudson, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole area to have a place to compete, train and come together.
Jonnie Jeeves stated: “An all-weather arena of this size and quality would be a huge asset to the local equestrian community – there is nothing comparable within an hour’s drive of Scarborough.”
No objections have been made by the council’s environmental protection team, the ecologist, or the Highway Authority.
Seamer Parish Council’s clerk said the authority “has considered this planning application under delegation and resolved that no objection and no comment be raised”.
North Yorkshire Council has not set a date for deciding on the application.
