Agenda

I have seen the recent DCC Press Release about ‘transformational’ plans to develop walking and cycling routes. 'Transformational' plans to develop walking and cycling routes backed - News

I am perplexed that there is no specific mention of horses in the release although there is mention of multi-use of routes, and examples of existing and planned multi use routes are cited in the release; Councillor Stuart Hughes only refers to “walking, cycling and wheeling” disregarding the importance of horse riding in a county which recorded 49 horse deaths on its roads during the two year period 2023/2024 and 243 road incidents to the BHS alone – we estimate that only 10% of the incidents actually get reported. Whilst it is important to have rural routes available to riders, the equestrian population will need to cross urban areas in safety to continue onward journeys. 

The guidance for the creation of these routes specifically mentions equestrians as users of all Active Travel routes: ATE route check tool user manual - The reference is at the foot of page 29 referring to paragraph 10.11

Here is the link to the House of Commons Transport Committee Active Travel 11^th Report: Active travel: increasing levels of walking and cycling in England - Transport Committee - House of Commons - The specific reference to horse riding appears in paragraph 6

I would welcome the forums comments on this matter as previously they have been wholeheartedly supportive of multi-use, especially as the existing trails are being universally ridden as is promoted in Sustrans Paths for Everyone guidance.

Philip Hackett
Access Field Officer - South West

The British Horse Society

To approve draft circulated to members.

To note and approve data protection form and privacy notice, as circulated to members.