Riding School Relocates as Development Threatens Horses’ Safety

A riding school in Yaxley, England, has announced its decision to relocate due to concerns about safety and the welfare of its horses. The **Folly Farm Equestrian Centre**, situated off **London Road**, is facing pressures from a nearby residential development that proposes to build **115 new homes** on its current site.

The stables have issued a statement indicating that ongoing construction work from the adjacent **Great Haddon development** has altered the environment around the riding school. While a formal decision on the proposed housing development has yet to be made, the equestrian centre has stated that the changes have already compromised the safe and peaceful home it once provided for its horses.

“As many of you know, the land we run our riding school on has been going through the appeal process for planning permission,” the centre said. “While the final decision is still pending, the reality is that the ongoing construction work from the Great Haddon development has already changed our environment. Sadly, our current site is no longer the safe, peaceful home it once was for our horses.”

The riding school highlighted several factors contributing to this decision, including increased foot traffic on public paths, persistent construction noise, and a general change in surroundings that introduce risks and stress for the horses. The welfare of the animals remains the top priority for the equestrian centre.

In light of these developments, the Folly Farm Equestrian Centre has identified a potential new location in the nearby village of **Farcet**. This larger site promises a more tranquil environment for both horses and clients, offering improved facilities and opportunities for enhanced services.

“This larger site will offer a far nicer and more peaceful environment for our horses and clients, with improved facilities, better hacking, and the space to provide enhanced services,” the centre stated. “Most importantly, it will give our horses the calm, safe, and happy surroundings they deserve. We’re really excited about this next chapter and look forward to keeping you updated.”

The planning inquiry regarding the proposed housing development took place recently, with a decision expected from the **Planning Inspectorate** later this year. Initially, the **Huntingdonshire District Council** had refused permission for the project, citing concerns over the potential harm to the countryside’s character and beauty. However, during the inquiry, the council announced it would not defend the refusal, stating that new information from the developer addressed previous concerns.

A shift in housing needs calculations in the area also influenced this change. The council now lacks a five-year supply of housing, triggering a “tilted balance” that could necessitate approval for developments unless the harms significantly outweigh the benefits.

Despite the potential for new homes, concerns from local stakeholders persist. The **Yaxley Parish Council** continues to object to the development, emphasizing issues related to highway safety and the preservation of a buffer zone between **Peterborough** and Yaxley.

As the situation evolves, the Folly Farm Equestrian Centre is focused on ensuring the best possible environment for its horses and maintaining engagement with its community through updates about the upcoming relocation.