Outdoor riding arena at Talland School Of Equitation Ampney Knowle, Barnsley

What was proposed

The application proposed an 80-metre by 80-metre outdoor riding arena with a porous surface, timber fencing, landscaping and no external lighting.

“Construction of an outdoor riding arena and associated landscaping works to include on-site BNG at Talland School of Equitation Ampney Knowle Barnsley Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 5FD”

“Planning permission is sought for an 80m x 80m outdoor arena. The arena would consist of a stone subbase with sand and fibre top layer all set on a woven porous geotextile membrane. It would then be enclosed with a 1.6m high timber post and rail fence. No external lighting is proposed.”

Officer report

The site and its history

The site is a sloping equestrian paddock beside an established school complex, with earlier equestrian centre permissions approved in 2004 and 2005.

“The application site is located to the northeast of Cirencester, in the countryside, and comprises of an equestrian paddock that forms part of the Talland School of Equitation, a long-established equestrian centre. The paddock is located directly to the west of the existing complex of school buildings. This includes an indoor school (with ancillary offices and student accommodation), outdoor school, stabling and Talland House where the applicants live.”

“03/02019/FUL - Equestrian Centre - 2 indoor riding arenas; 1 outdoor arena; 1 stable block for 70 horses; single storey student accommodation; storage barn and 1 two storey dwelling - Approved 05.08.2004”

Officer report

Landscape and environmental effects

The arena would require regrading, but officers considered its location, grassed slopes, landscaping and lack of lighting would protect the National Landscape and biodiversity.

“The proposal would involve the regrading of the existing paddock to create the flat area for schooling with the slopes tapering back to rejoin the existing land levels. Whilst the ground would be raised over 7.5m at its highest point, the reduction in levels would be spread over a large area. To ensure the ground works are carried out in accordance with these levels, the finished level of the outdoor arena is recommended to be conditioned.”

“Overall, the introduction of an outdoor arena in this location, physically and perceptually linked with the existing equestrian facility, would blend with the existing landform and ensure that the purpose of conserving and enhancing the National Landscape is furthered.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The biodiversity officer found the revised information satisfactory and supported permission with conditions and a legal agreement, while no town or parish council response was received.

“County Archaeologist - Given site is located some distance from nearest scheduled ancient monument at Barnsley Park; there is no need for archaeological investigations in relation to this application.”

“Biodiversity Officer - Following submission of additional/revised information, the proposal is satisfactory and would meet the requirements of the BNG condition. Recommend permission subject to conditions and the completion of a S106 agreement to secure the BNG monitoring fees.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent said the school needed more training space and that the arena would enable year-round training, expanded services and on-site biodiversity gain.

Members’ debate

Members discussed fencing colour, screening, visibility, imported soil, meadow protection, excavation and levelling, while recognising the school’s contribution to rural life.

“Member Questions Members asked questions of the officers, who responded in the following way: • The timber fencing colour had not been specified, but it could be controlled by condition. • The landscaping and site topography would make the development largely discreet from public views. Views from the road and nearby public rights of way were also largely screened by trees and distance, making the development difficult to see in full.”

“Member Comments In discussing the application, Members made the following comments: • There were concerns about the development requiring excavation and levelling of uneven land when a level area was available nearby. • Tree planting should ideally provide screening above the building’s height. • The school was acknowledged as being a remarkable business contributing to rural life in the Cotswolds.”

Minutes

The committee vote

Councillor Coleman proposed permission, Councillor Fowles seconded it, and the committee agreed the proposal with eight votes for and none against or abstaining.

“Councillor Coleman proposed PERMITTING the application and Councillor Fowles seconded the proposal. The proposal was put to the vote and agreed by the Committee.”

“RESOLVED: To PERMIT the application. Talland school of Equitation - PERMIT subject to S106 (Resolution) For Ray Brassington, Nick Bridges, Patrick Coleman, Daryl Corps, David Fowles, Julia Judd, Dilys Neill and Michael Vann 8 Against None 0 Conflict Of Interests None 0 Abstain None 0 Carried…”

Minutes