Horse charity objects to new football pitch

A horse charity has raised concerns over plans to build a new football pitch in Surrey.

The application includes a change of use of land in Hambledon Road, Godalming, to a recreational football pitch and car park.

The British Horse Society has placed a holding objection on the plans, stating it would significantly limit the ability to ride horses safely past the site and risk horses becoming panicked.

Hambledon Football Club said it had taken on board the concerns of the charity.

The proposed new site is adjacent to the football club’s existing ground and club facilities at Badger Park.

The British Horse Society said it hoped to work with those involved, including the developer, to gain clarity on the plans and to support with finding the best solution for all.

A total of 19 representations were received objecting to the proposals, while 78 were received in support.

The other objections included noise disturbance, light pollution, increased traffic, environmental concerns and no benefits to the village.

In response, those in favour said the field was not overlooked and therefore would not affect privacy or light, while the football club was biodiverse and conservation minded and averaged one to 15 spectators, meaning the pitch would not create additional noise.

Those in favour of the proposal also cited more opportunities to live a healthy lifestyle and an opportunity to turn an unused field into a recreational space.

The football club highlighted a lack of pitches in the area, stating it would be a “big benefit” to the local community.

“We have listened to concerns raised from the British Horse Society and moved the pitch and warm up areas back from the bridlepath,” a spokesman said.

“And would be looking to put in trees and hedgerows to further screen the pitch from the path.”

Hambledon is a historic rural village with about 400 households and fewer than 1,000 residents.

A decision by Surrey County Council is due on 18 September.

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