THE British Horse Society Ireland was horrified to learn of proposals by Coleraine Borough Council to ban horse riding on three beaches on the north coast of Ireland.

BHS Ireland’s off-road riding development officer Heather Hoffman said: “Increasing volume and speed of traffic on our roads is a national issue for equestrians and other vulnerable road users such as walkers and cyclists.

“Safe, accessible, off-road riding is essential to riders and carriage drivers throughout the UK. However, with its lack of equestrian off-road routes and bridleways, riders in Northern Ireland are already significantly disadvantaged and therefore at heightened risk compared to the rest of the UK.”

In comparison with the bridleways and byways available in an area of similar size in Britain, Northern Ireland has only 0.43 per cent of similar routes available.

Access to areas such as beaches and forestry are therefore essential.

Banning horses from using the beaches under the control of Coleraine Borough Council would not only be detrimental to the equine industry on the north coast, but also the many directly linked industries such as tourism, sport, education, recreation and health.

After a local meeting of some 200 equestrians, BHS Ireland is delighted to learn that Coleraine Borough Council has decided more work must be carried out prior to reaching any decision. The council has said it will have a two-month consultation period.

A committee of nine equestrian representatives, including BHS Ireland, has been formed.

Philip White, the proprietor of Maddybenny Stables, said: “A large amount of our business comes from the equestrian tourism industry, and liveries choose to stable their horses here because we are so close to the White Rocks Beach.

“Denying horse riders access would have a detrimental impact not only on our equestrian business, but also the holiday cottages and B&B service we run.”

BHS member Julie Smith said: “I enjoy the beautiful scenery and space afforded by our beaches. It is a rare opportunity to get off the roads, which are becoming busier and more dangerous.

“When I ride on the beach, people always stop to take photos and ask if they or their children may pet my horse. I am always welcomed on the beach by the other people there.”