Riding school gets the OK
PLANS to open a horseriding school have been approved despite some local opposition.
Gwynedd Council’s Planning Committee backed plans to replace the existing stables and build a new indoor riding school building at Llanfair Is-Gaer, on the outskirts of Caernarfon.
While the site is already used for riding, this is currently restricted to personal use, with the applicant hoping to expand and start a business by demolishing the “sub-standard” stables and replace them with bigger stables and an indoor riding school.
But the community council had objected to the plans, concerned the size and height of the building would affect the character and conservation of the area.
But county councillor Gareth Griffith supported the view of planning officers that the plans were acceptable due to the measures in place to mitigate any visual impact, while welcoming the potential creation of jobs.
Applicant Iona Jones defended the plans in a video address by making clear her plans to develop a “renowned sustainable riding centre” encouraging both children and adults to nurture and develop their skills in a safe environment.
Aiming to attract between 2,500 and 2,700 customers a year, it was also pointed out there is a “substantial hidden interest” and demand for horse-riding and horse-jumping in the area and beyond, but that no similar facilities existed on this side of the border.
The plans were approved unanimously.