Building Regulations for All Weather Arenas

Question:

“Please could you let me know where I can find the building regulations that apply to all weather equestrian arenas? I have tried phoning a couple of Planning Offices and they all just dodge the question. I want to read what is actually applicable to all weather arenas.

Why do we have to apply for planning permission?

What regulations apply (i.e. what statute? What Local Government mandate?)

Where can one appeal re an adverse decision?

From what I have heard (no direct proof) Local planners appear to be playing God over this issue and I would like to know exactly where I stand.

Many thanks”

Answer from Tom Grant:

Very broadly speaking, new “development” in the countryside is not permitted without planning consent. Change of use requires planning consent so triggers the process. Equestrian use in not classed as agricultural (unless a breeding enterprise) an so this triggers planning. Currently there are changes to planning interpretation being implemented to make the application process easier and to allow more to fall under “permitted development”. This is starting to get into technical knowledge and I would refer to a specialist planner for more specific advice.

1.      Question:  ‘What regulations apply (i.e. what statute? What Local Government mandate?)’

Answer: This is covered nationally under Planning Policy Statement 7 – Sustainable Development in Rural Areas (http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/147402.pdf ) more specific information can be found through the relevant local planning department, as local planning policy varies from county to county.

2.       Q: ‘Why do we have to apply for planning permission?’

A: Planning permission must be applied for because an arena is a new, permanent structure and will potentially require a change of use of the land from domestic or agricultural use.

3.      Q:  ‘Please could you let me know where I can find the building regulations that apply to all weather equestrian arenas?’

A: We don’t believe there are specific building regulations/controls applicable to the construction of an equestrian arena, provided that there are no actual buildings being constructed. All that is required is planning permission but within this there may be certain conditions attached to consent, ie drainage lighting etc..

4.     Q:  ‘Where can one appeal re an adverse decision?’

A: There is an appeal process which can be made, in writing, to the local planning department. Best to take so professional advice before submitting or getting rejected.

Other useful info can be found on;

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk  for comprehensive advice on governmental planning policies and a range of national and local planning contacts.

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/miniguides/outbuildings/Outbuildings.pdf guidance from the Planning Portal explains some of the regulation surrounding permitted development rights for residential dwellings.

For more specific planning advice one would need to speak to a specialist.