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Charity's Future Threatened by Path Dispute
5 Nov
Summary
- A charity fears closure due to a footpath dispute on its land.
- Public rights of way could endanger riders, horses, and volunteers.
- The centre has supported disabled individuals for over 40 years.
The Avon Centre, a charity in Bristol dedicated to providing horse riding and outdoor activities for disabled and vulnerable individuals for over 40 years, faces an uncertain future. A dispute concerning proposed public rights of way across its 95 acres of woodland has raised significant safety concerns.
These new public footpaths could endanger riders, horses, and volunteers, according to therapeutic activities programme manager Kim Langbridge. If objections are not withdrawn, Bristol City Council will escalate the application to the Planning Inspectorate. The centre, established in 1980, has been a vital resource for many, including those with special educational needs who find therapeutic benefits in its natural setting.
Para-dressage rider Tegan Vincent-Cooke, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, described the centre as her 'second home' growing up. She emphasized the limited opportunities available for the disabled community and the potential danger posed by changes. The charity has formally objected to the application, a process expected to take six to nine months, during which they will continue their vital work.
