Equine-related Activities

5.11 The keeping and riding of horses for recreation purposes is an increasingly popular form of leisure pastime which can generate income for the local rural economy. Similarly, commercial horse-related developments including riding schools, livery stables, stud farms, manèges and other equestrian enterprises can also make a significant contribution to the rural economy and are particularly important around Newmarket. The Borough Council recognises the need to make provision for such development, whilst at the same time having a commitment to protecting the environment and the amenities of neighbouring properties. The Borough Council is also concerned to avoid the proliferation of unnecessary building in the open countryside.

5.12 Domestic or commercial equine-related development generally requires a location in the rural areas as it may depend on the use of the surrounding land. The conversion of agricultural buildings for such uses will in general, be considered favourably (see Policy RU4 below). All equestrian development, whether domestic or commercial, should be of an appropriate scale and design and careful attention should be given to siting and landscaping details to ensure that proposals do not detract from the locality's character and appearance. In assessing a proposal, the Borough Council will consider the environmental impact, access, parking and traffic implications and the likely future development requirements of the activity. Applications for dwellings for certain key personnel associated with commercial equine establishments may be considered in the same manner as applications for dwellings for key agricultural personnel in accordance with Policy RU6. In such cases the application will be required to meet the tests set out in PPS7.

POLICY RU3: EQUINE-RELATED ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE HOUSING SETTLEMENT BOUNDARIES

Proposals for equestrian development outside Housing Settlement Boundaries, whether domestic or commercial, will be permitted where:

• i) Proposals are appropriate in respect of siting, scale and design, including materials and landscaping, and in keeping with the locality. Particular regard will be given to the cumulative effect of proposals;
  ii) Proposals do not detract from the character and appearance of the locality and enables the re-use of existing buildings where appropriate. New buildings should normally be erected as part of existing building groups;
  iii) Sufficient land is available for grazing and exercise where necessary;
  iv) Traffic generation, parking and access can be satisfactorily accommodated;
  v) Proposals do not adversely affect the amenities of adjoining residential properties; and
  vi) Proposals do not have an unacceptable impact on the local road and bridleway network.

Encouragement will be given to off road riding facilities such as headlands or bridleways within farm units.