Equestrian Services

In most situations horses do not fall under the definition of ‘agriculture’ and as such, the keeping of horses does not always share the same rights as agriculture under planning legislation. Many people have dreamed of setting up a yard for their favorite pastime, but in reality it might not be as straight forward as first thought. In general, land and buildings used for the keeping of horses for pleasure or for business purposes does require planning permission. The exception to the rule can arise when equestrian facilities are within the curtilage of the garden, here permitted development rights may apply but again various rules need to be complied with.

The use of land and buildings for personal equestrian use is rarely a contentious issue in terms of planning policy, although each application will be determined on its own merits and the affect on its surroundings will be assessed. If the development involves a commercial element, such as livery and competition facilities or riding schools, local planning authorities will assess a wider range of issues.

Our advice would be to talk through your proposals with one of our planning consultants at an early stage. Take advice before purchasing or adding to your property; it should never be assumed that just because the land is agricultural you will be able to build your perfect yard.

Our planning and architectural department offers clients a complete service from project conception through to completion and ongoing project management. We deal with applications for all equine related development for both private and commercial clients.

Equestrian projects include:

  • Stable Blocks
  • American Barns
  • Indoor Arenas
  • Manèges
  • Horse Walkers
  • Field Shelters
  • Rural Enterprise Dwellings
  • Associated facilities and Accommodation
  • Land Purchase
  • Letting Agreements

Client Testimonial

Miss Vicky Andrew Stated “I am absolutely delighted to receive planning permission to build the horse manège. I am extremely pleased with Roger Parry & Partners and how they managed the planning  application and process. Their technical ability and management of the project has been outstanding”

Mrs Wendy Harries, from Forden, stated ‘I am very pleased with the professional manner Roger Parry & Partners applied and gained planning consent for an outdoor horse menege on our holding, they were extremely efficient and very technical with their approach, and planning consent was obtained due to their ability.’