Riding for Disabled moving on

The Wellington Riding for the Disabled organisation is headed for greener pastures with the help of Greater Wellington Regional Council.

After operating from its Kenepuru site for 30 years the group is heading for Battle Hill Farm Forest Park on Paekakariki Rd.

The charity was first given notice to vacate it’s current site in March 2010 and has emailed it’s supporters assuring them of little disruption during the move.

They plan to move into the new location by September 30 and run programmes as usual in Term 4.

President and coach Donna Kennedy said the move is a positive step for the organisation.

‘‘We’re happy that we do have a future and Greater Wellington Regional Council have worked really hard to help us.’’

Parks manager Amanda Cox confirmed the regional council was in discussions with the group about both a temporary licence and a longer term lease at Battle Hill Farm Forest Park.

‘‘The temporary licence would be for use of the homestead paddock, offices and facilities while RDA prepares a full application for a longer-term lease of part of Abbotts Field.’’

The longer term lease would involve development of a covered arena and complex.

Kennedy said both agreements would require the group to get the necessary consents and permits for development and a public consultation process on the longer term agreement would take place.

‘‘Greater Wellington has a very positive relationship with RDA Wellington, and they provide an invaluable service to the community.

‘‘We have been working closely together for a number of months now, and are confident that we can deliver an outcome that works well for everyone.’’

Wellington RDA was established in 1974. They service clients with intellectual, psychological, social or strokerelated disabilities from Wellington City to Kapiti.

They are one of more than 50 groups throughout the country affiliated to the New Zealand RDA.