PLANNING chiefs have given the go-ahead for a business teaching horse riding and carriage driving on green belt land at Warrington – despite the scheme being opposed by the local parish council.
Members of Warrington’s development management committee agreed with planning officers who recommended the scheme be approved because it would provided access for people to take part in outdoor sport and recreation.
Sheila Woodyatt
The development will take place at Friends Lane Stables, Friends Lane, Penketh.
Cllr Sheila Woodyatt said: “I think it’s a wonderful scheme. It will introduce a new sport to the Warrington area – carriage driving.”
The committee was told the nearest establishment teaching carriage driving was at Preston.
Penketh Parish Council argued that the site had limited off-road parking and a poor entrance.
They also pointed out that the scheme involved a change of use of private stables which were granted planning consent six years ago on condition they not be used for a business or trade.
Officers recommended approval and said the development was acceptable in the green belt and the proposal would provide access for people to take part in outdoor sport and recreation.
It would not cause undue harm to the character and appearance of the area, nor the amenity of sensitive uses or highway safety.
