Additional Planning Information
Additional Information
As with all things in my life I try to comply with any rules and regulations and believe there is no point trying to do things in a less than professional and committed way. Since I gained my BHS (British Horse Society) teaching qualification (this is beneficial not only for it's global recognition of standards but for professional development and insurance protection) I have been increasingly asked to teach on my own horses. This is because they are not only safe, trustworthy and well-known but because we have competed at a high level both on the Island and in the UK (representing the Island on many occasions) people know they will learn a lot from them.
Riding School Licence
However, due to the requirements of public liability insurance I can not teach on my own horses without a riding school licence. I have spoken with Eamon O'Donnell some months ago and whilst he is happy to process my application he has advised me to make sure the necessary permissions are in place. This is why my application for additional use is required.
Parking
I feel it should be stressed that although I hope to hold a riding school licence, I will not be operating a riding school in the traditional sense. I only have 2 horses and 2 ponies (which belong to my daughter and myself and we still compete) on which to teach. The lessons I will be offering will be private (one person at once) and will therefore not be bringing numbers of cars en-mass into the Curraghs. I have parking for approx 20 cars in my driveway and a hard standing across the road for approx 10 more so there should be no visible difference from outside my property. If anyone brings their horse to me for a lesson they either hack or park their lorry or trailer on this hard standing completely off the road.
Hours of Business
I feel I will offer a different service from the other riding schools available as I will be concentrating on 'fine - tuning' people who can ride. Hence lower numbers of clients, therefore cars coming into the Curraghs. I respect the Curraghs and would never wish to upset the delicate balance of wildlife here. As my business is part-time I only envisage teaching during the day for a maximum of three hours. I am a single mother of two children ( 10 and 12 ) and as anyone in a similar position understands they take up the majority of my time. Having the licence will mean I can teach a little more from home where it is easier for me to accommodate the children than having to make arrangements for them whilst I go out to teach.
Liveries
In addition to the teaching I would like to have two full liveries. The reasons I want full liveries are; they fit in with my routine, they are the best profitable return for a stable/grass, the owner's only visit 4 or 5 times per week not twice a day because I look after the horse as if it were mine. This all adds up to less disruption for everyone. Again for Insurance purposes I need planning permission for part business use of my stables.
I understand some parties may be concerned about the implications of this application but I really think that it will cause minimal change to the current environment around Palm Cottage. At one time I had 10 of my own horses here. I am down to 5 of my own now plus 2 possible liveries so the actual number of horses is less. I only have 10 acres of grazing ( 7 owned and 3 rented) so the numbers of horses here will not increase further in the future for these limitations alone, as well as my only having one pair of hands.
I hope this additional information helps you to develop a clear picture of my future plans and the set up at Palm Cottage, but if you require any further information or require a visit please contact me and I would be delighted to discuss these plans further.
Thank you.
