GRAZING land could become a new equestrian area if a planning application requesting its change of use is approved.

The agent Blake Hopkinson Architecture submitted a planning application to Northumberland County Council requesting to convert existing paddock/grazing land into equestrian use, including the construction of a stables building, indoor riding arena and outdoor riding arena enclosed by a 900mm high post and rail fencing on green belt land at Oakwood Hall in Wylam.

The proposed stables and arenas are for the private use of Oakwood Hall's owners and are within the private ownership of the Hall's site.

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An objection was submitted by a local neighbour, who said this development on the green belt would benefit the owners of Oakwood Hall only.

It also stated permission would set a precedent for further similar construction on green belt land and that no car access was identified, which would be essential for such a development.

The objection concluded that a restrictive covenant exists between Oakwood House (the covenantee) and Oakwood Hall (the covenantor) dated March 7 1980. This states that this land (included within the red lines on this application) shall not be used otherwise than for the purpose of grazing animals.

For more information, go to the council's planning portal and search reference number 23/04064/FUL.