Comment

Representation ID: 19863

Received: 30/01/2009

Respondent: Mrs Tamara Strapp

Equestrian businesses are now contributing a large amount to the local economy in terms of jobs. I therefore believe that these businesses merit a similar planning trea1ment to agricultural and woodland enterprises.

Attached is part of a study conducted by the High Weald Bridleways Group on the contribution of horse enterprise to jobs, investment and tourism. The full study can be found on the organisation's web site http://www.highwealdbridlewaysgroup.org.uk/ Then go to bottom left link.

The figures research show that in this area average spend per horse is £4000 a year .Much of this supports other rural businesses such as forage makers, fencing suppliers and farriers. This was in 2003 and prices have gone up considerably since then. Also the horse owning population has grown considerably since then.

I ulderstand that counlcils in other parts of the Counltry have already taken steps to encourage sustainable equestrian enterprises and hope that Rother will do the same.