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Local Support for Plan to Build Outdoor Riding Arena Near Scarborough

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 18:30

By Anttoni James Numminen, Local Democracy Reporter

A new horse riding arena is planned for Seamer has received backing from a number of local residents.

Several residents and the local parish council have given their backing for ​the construction of an ‘equine ménage’ at Eastgate House Farm at Stoney Haggs Road, in Seamer, near Scarborough.

​​Alexis Simpson has proposed the installation of an “additional equine ménage adjacent to the existing one to allow for horse exercise and jump practice alongside hosting occasional equine events”.

​Local resident, Elaine Keith, said:

“I believe it will be a popular venue, and supported by the local equestrian fraternity.

​“As a neighbour, I can confirm that my view will not be impacted by the creation of the menage.”

​​According to submitted plans, Eastgate House Farm was built by Mr and Mrs Simpson after receiving planning permission in 2007.

​​If permission is granted, small-scale equine events would “occasionally occur between March and October and be strictly controlled by the applicant, being invitation only”.

​Commenting on the plans submitted to North Yorkshire Council, Laura Rafferty-Trow said:

“The proposed development supports local grassroots equestrian sport, particularly due to its proposed size, which allows for a full outdoor showjumping course with an appropriate surfaced area for warm-ups in the existing arena.

“This is a welcome investment given the current economic climate and will support the mental health of a section of the rural community by supporting hobbies, sport, social activities and outdoor time.”

​​The ménage would be constructed immediately to the east of and adjacent to the existing smaller ménage, and would be 60 metres long and 40 metres wide with a 1.5m high timber post and rail fence.

​Another resident, Jane Hudson, said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole area to have a place to compete, train and come together.

​Jonnie Jeeves stated:

“An all-weather arena of this size and quality would be a huge asset to the local equestrian community – there is nothing comparable within an hour’s drive of Scarborough.”

​No objections have been made by the council’s environmental protection team, the ecologist, or the Highway Authority.

​Seamer Parish Council’s clerk said the authority “has considered this planning application under delegation and resolved that no objection and no comment be raised”.

​North Yorkshire Council has not set a date for deciding on the application.

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