We need your help to campaign for equestrian access to Gedling Country Park in Nottinghamshire
The former Gedling Colliery site in Nottinghamshire is undergoing a huge transformation, and will be opened as a country park in autumn 2014. The aim is to provide a recreational space with access to walks and tracks for walkers, cyclists, dog walkers and visitors. However, due to “Health and Safety” considerations, there will be no provision made for horse riding with the park (though dogs will be allowed). This is extremely disappointing given the fact that there are around 3 million horse riders in the UK (this is not a minority sport), many of whom are forced to ride on the road due to the lack of access to safe off-road routes. The vast majority of riders would choose not to ride on the roads, and the British Horse Society estimates that there are around 3000 road accidents involving horses every year, including fatalities of both horses and riders. With traffic volumes ever increasing, the need for safe riding routes has never been greater. Horse riding is part of the cultural landscape of Nottinghamshire and provides people with a fantastic way to get exercise and get involved with the countryside as well as contributing to the local economy. Please add your voice to our campaign to persuade park authorities that equestrian access is needed.
