A SINGLE mum has been given the green light to relocate her equestrian school in Pilning after a year-long battle.


Carrie Vinson, 34, moved her school, Carrie Vinson Equestrian in Redham Lane, only 200 metres up the road last year in a bid to expand her business.


She sought to re-build her thriving enterprise to support her 10-month-old daughter Daisy – but faced objections from a number of local councillors and residents, who raised concerns over safety of hacking – riding horses on narrow roads nearby.


The Leonard Stanley resident managed to keep the business running but struggled without stables or an equestrian arena, until she was finally granted permission to build the school at a development control meeting on Thursday, August 27.


Miss Vinson said was astounded that South Gloucestershire Council voted unanimously in her favour.


“I still can’t believe it, I’m in shock,” she said.


“The school is my livelihood – this was life or death to me.


“I started the business two years ago and it aims to support individuals to overcome mental and physical illnesses too, like anxiety.We have clients with multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease who we help as well.


“The business feeds back into the local economy – local farmers are paid to provide a large amount of hay and straw.


“It has taken a year to sort out paperwork, carry out flood surveys as we are close by the River Severn and more – it’s been a long process - and we’ve had a few objectors.


“I’m just so happy now I have permission. The school is a family – I’m the only paid worker, the rest are all amazing helpers and volunteers.”


Several residents objected to Miss Vinson’s proposal to change the use of agricultural land to become a riding school and construct an outdoor equestrian area, with two stables blocks, high gates and a 10,000 litre water tank.


Cllr Matthew Riddle raised concerns about the safety of hacking on the nearby roads.
“The site is in the middle of a long lane, which is single track in most places with few passing places.


“There are large lorries in operation on the road two, due to two nearby industrial estates.


“Is this a safe place to put a rural business involving horses?”


Sue Hunter, chairman of Olveston Parish Council’s planning committee, said the parish council considered the site to be unsuitable for the school.


“Many farm tractors fill the narrow lanes which is extremely dangerous for horses on the road,” she said.


“It is a good application but in the wrong situation.”


Miss Vinson thanked her supporters over the past year and said work would start straightaway on the site.


“People have been so generous.”