Explanation G8

9.39

Proposals for agricultural buildings or plant, or for small-scale equestrian development are often appropriate in principle in the Green Belt.   However, it is important to ensure they are not detrimental to either the openness of the Green Belt or to visual amenity. In considering the impact of a proposal on the landscape, details should be submitted not just of the development itself but also of associated paraphernalia such as (in the case of equestrian developments) any jumps or other equipment.

Agricultural Development

9.40

Under current permitted development rights (see glossary) for certain types of agricultural development, planning permission needs to be sought, or prior notification of intent needs to be given. Changing agricultural practises brought about by changes in hygiene and welfare legislation, the European Union Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform, and changing requirements of the market place may well result in the need for new development. The Council wishes to ensure that such development is sensitively located, and respects the character of the area.

9.41

For any new agricultural development, proposals should include details of any requirement for 24 hour residential supervision. Where such a requirement is identified, full details of how it is intended to provide such accommodation must be provided at the outset.

Equestrian Development

9.42

In recent years there has been a proliferation of pony paddocks and horse related activities, especially in urban fringe areas. The use of land for recreational horse keeping can bring employment and economic benefits, and offer an attractive way of exploring the countryside, but it can also have a significant impact on the countryside.

9.43

The keeping of horses can lead to the sub division of fields, downgrading of pasture and a demand for new buildings to provide shelter and accommodation. Commercial riding establishments and livery yards can amount to substantial developments with stabling, flood-lit exercise areas, indoor riding schools and, occasionally, demand for 24-hour employee presence on site. The landscape can, therefore, be fundamentally altered, leading to a loss of visual amenity, and a change in the character of the area, particularly when a number of such uses are in close proximity. There can also be conflict between motorised and non-motorised road users, with a consequent impact on road safety.

9.44

In some cases, however, horse keeping can be a positive force in maintaining traditional pastoral landscapes, especially where there is a commitment to good pasture management and boundary maintenance. Equestrian activity which respects the rural environment can help to diversify the rural economy and is a traditional part of rural life. Additionally, land used for grazing is usually considerably more biodiverse than arable land.

9.45

The grazing of horses for recreational or agricultural purposes generally lies outside planning control, but associated development, such as horse shelters, stables, and ménage and turn out areas, is normally the subject of planning control.

9.46

To ensure that horse related development does not result in overgrazing, proposals should indicate at least 0.4 ha of grazing land for every horse within or adjacent to the site where the horses will be kept.  This guideline is based on the advice of the British Horse Society and of the Countryside Commission in their booklet “Horses in the Countryside”. The guideline will promote the interests of animal welfare and prevent overgrazing of land, with resultant detriment to the landscape. 

9.47

Where stables fall within the curtilage of dwellings and do not constitute Permitted Development (see glossary), these will also be subject to the requirements of this policy.

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