BHS Ireland horrified at Council's proposals to ban equestrians access to the coast
| BHS Ireland horrified at Council's proposals to ban equestrians access to the coast The British Horse Society Ireland was horrified to learn of proposals by Coleraine Borough Council to ban horse riding on three beaches on the North Coast of Ireland. BHS Ireland's Off-Road Riding Development Officer Heather Hoffman, said: "Increasing volume and speed of traffic on our roads is a national issue for equestrians and other vulnerable road users such as walkers and cyclists. |  |
"Safe, accessible, off road riding is essential to riders and carriage-drivers throughout the UK. However, with its lack of equestrian off road routes and bridleways, riders in Northern Ireland are already significantly disadvantaged and therefore at heightened risk compared to the rest of the UK."
In comparison with the bridleways and byways available in an area of similar size in Britain, Northern Ireland has only 0.43 percent of similar routes available. Access to areas such as beaches and forestry are therefore essential.
Banning horses from using the beaches under the control of Coleraine Borough Council would not only be detrimental to the equine industry on the North Coast, but also the many directly linked industries such as tourism, sport, education, recreation and health.
Having spoken with Kieran Doherty, Environmental Department Coleraine Borough Council, and Alex Carmichael, Director of Leisure Services Coleraine Borough Council, and having attended a local meeting of some 200 equestrians, BHS Ireland is delighted to learn that Coleraine Borough Council have decided more work must be carried out prior to reaching any decision. The Council has said they will have a two month consultation period.
A committee of nine equestrian representatives', including BHS Ireland, has been formed and will meet for the first time after the Council's meeting on April 28 2009.
Philip White, the proprietor of Maddybenny Stables, a British Horse Society Approved Establishment, commented: "A large amount of our business comes from the equestrian tourism industry, and liveries choose to stable their horses here because we are so close to the White Rocks Beach.
"Denying horse riders access would have a detrimental impact not only on our equestrian business, but also the holiday cottages and B&B service we run."
Current figures sourced from the National Equine Database state that as of 13 January 2009, there are 46,026 horses registered with passports (issued by UK passport issuing organisations) in Northern Ireland.
BHS member Julie Smith said: "I enjoy the beautiful scenery and space afforded by our beaches for pleasure riding, in particularly the White Rocks.
It is a rare opportunity to get off the roads, which are becoming busier and more dangerous.
"When I ride on the beach, people always stop to take photos and ask if they or their children may pet my horse. I am always welcomed on the beach by the other people there."
BHS Ireland suggests that all equestrians and anyone who is concerned about this ban should write or email a letter to the Coleraine Council and/or their local MLA as soon as possible, stating their concerns and asking for support.
Details of all Coleraine Councillors can be found on www.colerainebc.gov.uk and details of MLA's can found on www.niassembly.gov.uk
Added on: 22/04/09.
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