An outdoor horse arena can continue to operate despite concerns over the impact on nearby historical sites and light pollution. 

Applicant Anthony Lewis opened the site, at Crossgate Moor, Durham, in 2022 and sought retrospective planning permission to keep the facility, which includes fencing and floodlights. The arena is for personal use only and is closed to the public. 

Objectors said the floodlights would be an eyesore, exercising horses at nighttime is unnecessary, and the noise from the site would be an intrusion. 

County councillor Marion Wilson, of Deerness ward, told a Durham County Council planning meeting: “The arena sits on the top of the hill and the light pollution will carry well into the village of Bearpark. There will also be a great impact on wildlife in the vicinity.”

The Northern Echo: An outdoor horse arena can continue to operate despite concerns over the impact on nearby historical sites and light pollution. An outdoor horse arena can continue to operate despite concerns over the impact on nearby historical sites and light pollution. (Image: Google)

Residents also raised concerns over its impact on the historic Beaurepaire site. The medieval manor house is close to the site of the Battle of Neville’s Cross, which cllr Wilson said would be “lit like a beacon” and encourage anti-social behaviour. 

“This application is for the benefit of two people to the detriment of residents of Bearpark and other surrounding areas,” added cllr Wilson.

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The meeting on Tuesday also heard from resident Dr Mohammed Al Hilali, who said nearby green spaces must be protected. He said: “It’s key for me to object to this not just for the impact on nature and wildlife, but for the community that surrounds us and for people to enjoy it rather than the privileged few that get to ride horses through the night.” 

But the applicant Mr Lewis said the impact would be minimal. A statement read: “There will be limited and localised impact on the landscape character and general appearance of the area. However, this will be for short periods, and for only a small proportion of the year because of the lighting.”

The council planning department’s recommendation to approve the application was backed by councillors. Cllr Kevin Shaw said: “I feel for the residents on this, but looking at the application, I don’t think there are any grounds to object.”