Latest from Horse & Hound in Building-stables

Wondering how to design your own stable yard where horses thrive? Meet the trainer who did just that – and find out how you can do the same

bethany.stone@futurenet.com (Bethany Stone) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Designing your own stable yard – and doing it well – means considering what your horses need and making that top of the list.

We know that the happiest horses have the three Fs – freedom, forage and friends – in abundance. But how do you replicate these welfare pillars in a traditional setting where horses have their own stables?

Working with Monarch, Hertfordshire-based holistic horse trainer Miri Hackett forged an innovative solution.

“Horses are herd animals, and it was very important to build spaces that enable herd dynamics while still offering a level of individuality,” she tells Horse & Hound.

“In an ideal world we wouldn’t have stables at all; we would have big barns where horses come and live in herds together.”

However, like many yards, Miri has a high turnover with horses coming in for training and rehab for short periods, so a large herd would be frequently disrupted.

“My reality is that horses often come in with injuries, or underdeveloped social skills,” Miri continues. “So, I needed to balance building a training facility that gave horses their own spaces with fulfilling their social needs.

“Monarch totally delivered my vision – it’s the first design they have done like this.”

Miri’s stables feature a curved partition that is low enough on one side to allow horses to touch noses and groom, then slopes up to full height gradually so horses have free choice to interact – or not – with their neighbours and form important horse friendships.

“When we moved the whole herd to the new place, they settled really quickly because they could all touch, mutually groom and stand with each other.”

The curved partitions allow horses to interact while remaining safely in their own stable (Image credit: Holly Outridge Photography)

Miri says the stable design has contributed to an oasis-like calm in her barn.

“The most of the stables are 14x14’, so they have plenty of room,” she explains. “I think that’s part of it. And I’ve never known horses sleep so much as they do here.

“At the moment, they stay out all night and come in during the day, and once they’ve been fed and done their training, they will often lie flat out snoring. It’s so unbelievably peaceful.”

How to design a stable yard: focus on facilities

The success of Miri’s design comes from thoughtful planning of her stable design ideas and lessons learned from experience.

“I’ve been on quite a few yards, so I know what works and what doesn’t,” she explains. “For example, one place had the tack room miles from the stables. It was nobody’s fault, it was just how it was set up, but it was awkward if you forgot anything.”

Miri’s tack and feed rooms are placed at the front of the barn (left in the image below) with the stables around the edge and in the middle, meaning feed and equipment are always close at hand, and the walkways are wide and inviting.

“I think this helps make it all feel very safe,” she says. “There isn’t anywhere that a horse might feel confined.”

An overhead view of the yard layout showing the wide walkways with stables in the centre and around the edge of the barn (Image credit: Holly Outridge Photography)

Creating an open and inviting wash bay was another important point for Miri.

“Wash bays are often put in a dark corner out of the way,” she continues. “But I wanted it to feel like this big, lovely, open, safe space right at the front of the barn.

“I worked with Jelka who supplied a lot of rubber matting. We’ve put down this matting that’s grippy but porous, so you don’t get water sitting on top.

“The aim was make sure that horses feel able to rest while they have a bath, not just have to put up with it.”

Sustainability as a horse owner is another of Miri’s priorities, and her arena surface is plastic-free.

“This means we aren’t leeching microplastics into the environment and it is watered from the bottom, so the surface is really consistent.”

What are the challenges faced when designing your own yard?

In Miri’s project, the principal hurdles included:

Finances

“I didn’t want to just go for the cheapest option, and if you want to create something that meets your needs and is built to last, it is going to be expensive.”

The weather

“Building the arena was difficult. We were having to construct it in January and February, which is about as bad as it gets and the mud was terrible.

“As long as you have someone reliable, dedicated and ultra-professional to do your groundwork – we used Elmtree construction – they will get you through it and keep you on top of things.”

Hindsight

“There’s always something you wish you’d thought of, and for me that’s including a grass-free track turnout system. It’s something I want to build in the future, but I just wish I'd included it in the original project.”

Miri Hackett is a fan of horses spending as much time as possible outside, but her future plans include a grass-free track turnout system (Image credit: Holly Outridge Photography)

Tips for designing your own yard

Miri says that it pays to dedicate a lot of time to planning the yard design.

“If you have an opportunity, really sit down and plan. For years, I hoped I would get the tenancy of this farm. I spent all of that time thinking, ‘OK, where would this go? That could go there, that would go here’.

“If you can, make the stables bigger than you would think. For me, there is no such thing as too big a stable, especially if your horse spends part of his day in there regularly. Making it so horses can touch and be social will make a difference, too.”

While she acknowledges that budgets can be restrictive, Miri says that the cheapest option isn’t always the right choice.

“Get multiple quotes, have conversations, and get people to come and visit and see the site to gain an accurate picture of what they can do. There are so many amazing people out there with a wealth of knowledge and ideas if you let them give their opinion.”

Miri believes her stable yard design helps the horses in her care relax and rest (Image credit: Holly Outridge)

It also pays to be thorough – the right company will relish this.

“I spent a long time going backwards and forwards on things. Monarch went above and beyond when it came to showing me why they were worth what they were asking for.

“They let me go to their factory to see how things were made. They took me to a yard they had built that they thought I would like to see. Most importantly, they came out so many times and looked at the layout, and we played around with it; they were so open to every idea.”

Miri’s ultimate tip is having sight of a prospective company’s existing work.

“There are people out there who will do the work you want for a fair price to a high standard. Having proof of this before you proceed will fill you with confidence and set you up for success.”

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Dreaming about building your own stables? Here’s how much they could cost… Sponsored

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:30:50 +0000

Horse & Hound created this content as part of a paid partnership with Monarch Equestrian. The contents of this article are entirely independent and solely reflect the editorial opinion of Horse & Hound.

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to build stables? We’ve got the answers for you, if you’re based in the UK.

The cost of building stables varies significantly depending on factors like size, materials, whether it’s a mobile structure or fixed, groundwork, and whether professional labour or DIY is involved.

How to work out the cost of building stables

You first need to ascertain whether you require planning permission. Planning permission is needed for permanent stables in the UK, for both private, professional and commercial use. Submitting planning applications will incur a cost, so this will need factoring into your budget.

Temporary field shelters may not need permission if movable, but always check with your local planning authority as the rules can vary.

You then need to define the scope of your build, considering how many stables you require, and whether you would like to include additional facilities, such as a tack room, hay storage and a wash bay.

Assess the site you’re hoping to build upon as this could radically affect the cost of the project, with key considerations including if the land is sloping and whether you already have access, utilities and drainage in place.

Material preference will also have an impact on cost, such as whether you use basic, pre-fabricated materials, timber or a bespoke, high-spec service with top notch products. Wooden stables are generally more affordable than those built with brick and block, which also require more complex foundations, but can get very warm in summer.

Budget realistically and factor in money for any nasty surprises along the way. We will break down the costs involved when building stables further, but as a ball park figure, the following applies:

For a single standalone stable, prices start at around £2,000 to £5,000, excluding groundwork
A small block (two or three boxes) typically costs between £7,000 and £15,000, depending on finishes
A full yard, with groundwork and infrastructure, can easily stretch from £25,000 to over £100,000

Other things to consider prior to starting your build include whether you are going to tackle the work yourself on a DIY basis or employ professionals to carry out the work. DIY may save on labour, but carries risks and time costs. For complex or high-spec projects, professional installation is recommended.

Finally, where you are in the UK could affect the cost of your build, due to construction cost trends across the country.

So how much does it cost to build stables?

Basic pre-made stable units

Small one-bay stable (basic wooden prefab): £880 to £1,370
Two stables: £1,860 to £2,700

This excludes groundwork, delivery, VAT, and any assembly beyond straightforward installation.

Prefabricated timber units and additional features

Vale Stables offer the following prices:

10×10ft timber unit: £1,700
12×12ft unit: £1,990 (an extra £270 if mobilised with steel skids)
Additional features like windows, doors and guttering are available at an additional cost. For example, a Perspex window costs £120.

Handcrafted/bespoke timber stables

Bespoke or premium timber stables typically fall in the range of £5,000 to £30,000, depending on size and specifications.

Devon Garden Buildings offers a 12x12ft handcrafted static stable (VAT included) for £2,300, while Olson Timber Buildings offers a double 12x12ft stable block for £7,944, including VAT.

Monarch Equestrian creates both internal and external stables. Its Imperial Stables range start from £1,095 plus VAT and excluding delivery. This price is based on one 12ft hardwood stable front with an offset bottom swinging door for an internal set-up in an American barn.

Or if you’re looking for a more premium product, Monarch’s Regal Stables start from £1,435 plus VAT, also excluding delivery. This includes a 12ft Regal Victorian hardwood stable front with a central bottom swinging door and additional end post, also designed for internal use.

Monarch Equestrian also offers lots of extra add-ons, should you wish to include them in your build, such as sliding or swinging doors, stable mangers and troughs, tie rings, hay feeders, stable door chains, automatic water drinkers, rug rails and more.

Premium and high-spec installations

The cost of larger projects, with multiple specifications are available upon request, but the answer is basically, how long is a piece of string?

One person who created their own yard with eight stables, a hay barn, and tack room, plus all the necessary groundwork, utilities, fencing, drainage and access costs associated with this, spent £100,000.

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(Image credit: Andrew Sydenham for Future Publishing)

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Building your own stables? Find out what H&H readers who have been through the process want to share… Sponsored

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:30:58 +0000

Having the space (and budget) for building your own stables is something not all of us are lucky to have.

However, those that do, although they have managed to create their dream yard in many ways, find that there are sometimes things they wish they had done differently.

We spoke to some H&H readers who fall into this category to find out more – and also to hear about the things they are also really glad they included during their respective stable builds.

H&H forum user Peglo said: “We built a ‘general purpose’ shed, which is a 60x40ft steel structure, with light and airy stables made from wood that my husband built.

“We put windows in each stable so the horses can look outside but, if I’m being honest, we rarely use them and they are usually shut.”

She continues: “Two of the windows open onto a small paddock and if I was doing it again, I would make them doors and either have an outdoor run each or just open onto the paddock.”

Peglo’s stable windows (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The size of her stables is another aspect Peglo said she wishes she could have changed.

“We put in big wooden doors so bigger vehicles could get in if required, but because of the size of the gap it meant the stables were limited to a certain width. If I could change it, I would make the doors smaller – or put at them other end of the shed – so my stables could be bigger.

Peglo’s barn doors (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Otherwise I’m very content with my stables and horses seem happy.”

Building your own stables: size matters

Fellow H&H forum user Elle also shared her experiences of building her own yard.

“I extended the stables at my previous house, going from two 12x12ft and one 12x16ft with one tack room to two tackrooms, four 12x12ft, one 12x16ft and an extra 12x12ft grooming/washing/tack-up area with electric and water that could, at a pinch, be used as a stable too. The stables were a corner shape with the grooming area doubling as a path to the field,” explains Elle, who says she also had some extra features that she really enjoyed as part of her yard.

“I loved my three-way Shetland door, meaning my Shetland could see out but the extra bit could also be closed to be used for larger horses. I also loved having individual light switches for each stable, plus there were windows in the back wall diagonally opposite to the door to help with air flow. Taps in the main tackroom and grooming area were also very useful.”

Elle’s Shetland door in full use. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Ease of access is incredibly important when considering the layout of a yard and this was something Elle implemented.

“I made sure the stable doors opened to make it easier to lead horses out and through the grooming area to the field, meaning some opened to the left, and others to the right,” she says, commenting now that she has moved house, there have been features that she hasn’t rushed to replace.

“Namely drinkers in each stable,” says Elle. “I had them with individual taps meaning they could be turned off if the stables were empty or if I knew frost was coming, but the horses just loved to itch on them and I was in constant fear of them pulling them off the walls.”

There are some final extras Elle would like to have on her yard.

“I still plan to get a stable heater – in one stable to use after winter baths – and fans in all stables for hot summers, plus cameras in each stable, too.”

Fellow yard owner Leila Horsey reminds us that the consideration of where you live and the weather you’re likely to experience is crucial when creating a well-functioning yard.

“Being in north-east Scotland, if I ever did it again, I would build an American barn and not regular stables,” says Leila.

Speaking of features that she likes at her set-up, Helen Fitzpatrick says: “I’m glad I put ‘talk grilles’ in so that horses can see and communicate with each other. I’m also pleased I installed roof lights and top opening windows and I’m relieved I didn’t include automatic drinkers.”

Key points to bear in mind while building your own stables include, but are not limited to the following:

Ventilation
Lighting
Flooring
Door design
Materials you will use
The size of each stable
Water supply
Drainage
Insulation
Safety
Roofing

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10 ways you can be more sustainable as a horse owner

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 15:30:40 +0000

Sustainability has become part of daily life for many people and our efforts to be more sustainable in our everyday lives are increasing, and rightly so. But what can we do as horse owners to make our efforts go further? And what does being more sustainable and eco-friendly mean for us as equestrians?

Why is being sustainable important for equestrians?

Equestrians have plenty of reasons to get behind implementing sustainable practices in their home and yard lives, Ruth Dancer, CEO of sustainability consultancy company White Griffin, explains.

“Horse sport depends entirely on the health of the environment,” she tells H&H. “Whether it’s decent turnout with healthy grass, the quantity and quality of crops that farmers grow for feed and bedding, access to water, or even the risk of infectious diseases coming to our country – climate change is a major factor in all these issues.”

How you can be more sustainable as a horse owner

There are many routes to sustainability for horse owners. It doesn’t have to be done in large-scale, expensive gestures – rather, lots of small, low-cost changes can make a big difference.

Being more sustainable – by using less electricity, fuel, and water – is also one of the best ways of saving money.

Read on for some simple ways you can become a more sustainable horse owner.

1. Limit your waste

Most of us have at least two bins at home, with recyclables in one and general waste in the other. So, why not do the same at the yard, especially as many feed companies are now using recyclable packaging.

If you don’t have good recycling provision locally, some bedding companies will also collect your plastic wrap and recycle it – there is even one that has reusable bags that you can return – so this is worth considering.

Separating waste and recycling at the yard is an easy step for many horse owners (Image credit: Getty Images)

2. Harvest rainwater

Good water conservation practices are becoming increasingly important, and harvesting rainwater is something almost anyone with a stable can do in some capacity.

Ruth warns that by 2030 many parts of the country will experience extreme water shortages. As a results, water will become much more expensive and regulations will be put in place surrounding the use of water.

Water is too precious to waste – before discarding water from your horse’s stable, consider whether there another way you could use it? (Image credit: Getty Images)

“Water is fundamental to our sport and we can never be in a position where drinking water is restricted for our horses,” she continues. “So, as the third biggest user of water in the leisure sector, we must start investing now in infrastructure and technology that enables us to harvest rainwater for washing horses and tack, and if possible, consider the use of boreholes and arena surfaces that require far less watering.”

Most horse owners can invest in a large water butt (like this one) to collect water from gutters for general cleaning or washing horses down, or buy a limiter (like this one) to turn off water supply once buckets are full automatically.

3. Make use of biodegradable waste

Harness biodegradable waste to level up your grazing.

“One of equestrianism’s biggest waste streams is manure,” says Ruth. “Where possible, opting for bedding types like chopped straw and storing muck heaps effectively means manure becomes an excellent resource that can be harrowed back into the land. This provides nutrients and helps move us away from the use of chemicals.”

4. Consider your buying habits

Next time you go to buy something, ask yourself: “Do I really need this? If so, does it need to be brand new?”

Ruth says that one of the biggest factors driving environmental problems is excessive consumerism.

“By buying less, or buying second-hand, you can save a lot of money while being more sustainable. Basic principles of reduce, reuse, repair, and recycle are all part of both a sustainable and low-cost way of living.”

Buying less or second-hand can save a lot of money (Image credit: Getty Images)

5. Give old things new life

In the spirit of reduce, reuse, repair, and recycle, think about how you could use something that no longer functions as it once did. For example, you could reuse old containers and sacks to cut down on landfill.

Leaky water trugs can be reused for storing equipment, and if you’re mulching down your muck heap, why not provide old sacks for a fill-your-own service for local gardeners?

If you have no use for functional kit, consider selling or donating it before you reach for the bin.

6. Buy in bulk

If you’re on a livery yard and have space to store, bulk deliveries can save money, reduce transport costs and the associated emissions caused by multiple deliveries or trips to the tack shop.

7. Build sustainably

If you’re in the position of building your own yard or upgrading your current facilities, consider the materials you could use before you start the job.

Timber is a more eco-friendly option than brick or block-built stables and, as it relatively lightweight and transportable, needs fewer deliveries and promotes cleaner roads (Image credit: Alamy)

In order to build more sustainable stables, you could consider using:

timber, which naturally keeps stables cooler in summer and warmer in winter, from suppliers that are FSC [Forest Stewardship Council] certified (so you know it comes from sustainably managed forests)
a non-concrete base, such as HippoTile flooring, which reduces the amount of high-carbon concrete and bedding required
landscaped areas to break up concrete and tarmac
solar panels on roofs to generate your own power

8. Vary your grasses

According to Ruth, we can even manage grazing more sustainably and make our horses’ forage more sustainable – better for them and the environment.

“We can do so much better than over-grazed paddocks containing nothing but ryegrass,” she says. “Herbs and wildflowers can be a wonderful natural aid to digestion, and reduce inflammation. By giving our horses options, we give them the chance to ingest what benefits them.

“I’d always recommend speaking to a vet before making dietary changes, but by introducing different grasses and herbs into your setup, you not only help your horse with a more varied diet, but create a better habitat for nature, enhancing carbon storage in the soil and even a more resilient root structure to help maintain the soil and reduce poaching in winter.”

Varying grasses and growing wildflowers can improve the quality of your soil (Image credit: Getty Images)

9. Grow wildflowers

Growing wildflowers is good news all round, low-cost and easy to do, but Ruth adds that horse riders have the opportunity to make a big impact on biodiversity, which could be a boost for social licence.

“We have lost around 97% of our species-rich grassland in the UK,” she explains. “If equestrians make changes now, in the long term we can hope to restore some of what was lost. We could be key players in beginning to see our native British wildlife thrive again.”

10. Switch off

Whether it’s lights, electric fencing or phone chargers not in use. This saves energy, cuts bills and reduces the risk of electrical fires. Solar-powered electric fencing is an option where it needs to stay on.

There is also a wide variety of solar lighting suitable for arenas and stables, which are not only more sustainable but might also make your life easier in the winter.

Where you can’t go solar, swap to lower energy – The Energy Saving Trust advises that swapping standard bulbs and halogen spotlights for energy-saving LED bulbs can save £45 per year, and 35kg of carbon dioxide.

For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘It becomes an addiction!’ Rider who built dream stables from pallets tops it off with beautiful home-made tack room

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 19:51:05 +0000

A rider who built her own stables from scratch, from pallets, by her own hand has now created a beautiful tack room to finish the project.

H&H reported two years ago on the work of Clara Fingerhut, who wanted to put in her dream stables at her new home in Brittany, France, but could not afford the hefty price tag. So she took apart pallets and built them herself.

Clara said her first priority was the stables and once they were built, she could take her time a bit more on the tack room. She wanted a concrete base, and a stronger roof so she could store things on top.

“So it wasn’t as simple as the stables,” she said. “I was so lucky because the landscape gardener who concreted the posts in for the stables said if I made the frame, if he got a client he was concreting for, and had any spare, he could bring the truck straight to me.

“Then, eight months later, I got a call to say the truck was on its way; I had almost forgotten so had to make the frame quickly! But then I could finish the tack room.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Clara again set to separating pallets into their component planks, and screwing them together to build an outer room, and a smaller inner one that is lockable, for the tack itself.

“It was the same technique, although this was double cladding as I wanted to insulate it,” she said. “The flooring came from my dad as he was putting in a new kitchen so he ripped out the old floor and I had it but I made the cupboard doors from old window shutters, I made the doors, and a bench for storage, which has my rugs in it. The only other thing that isn’t pallets is the ceiling as I wanted it to be sturdy enough to store my feed and bedding on.

“It doesn’t look that professional when you’re up close; some of it isn’t quite straight by the skirting boards as the planks aren’t all the same but I’m really happy with it; it’s a nice place to spend time.”

One of the windows looks at the school, which by chance also evolved from planks. Clara could not afford the waxed sand she wanted, as this would have cost €30,000 just for the surface but found a company that supplies a surface made partly from a type of wood chip – one that does not turn to mulch when it gets wet.

“It cost about €13,000 in total, including the fencing and drainage, and it was only afterwards I found out the wood chips were from pallets too, it was very fitting!” she said.

The school gate is also made from some extra-long pallets Clare happened to find.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“They’re used to deliver big windows on,” she said. “The man I got them from, another landscape gardener, had a job next to this company and said he’d spoken to the man so I went and it was like pallet heaven! If you’d said to me two years ago I’d be in heaven in somewhere with extra-long pallets, I wouldn’t have believed you!”

And now the project is complete, Clara added, she can start looking at the house.

“Now I can put some money into it so it’s warm in winter,” she said. “I’ve got a boyfriend now who lives with me and he thought I was nuts, I’d put all that time and money into the stables and nothing into the house but priorities!”

In total, Clara thinks she has used 200 pallets and 15,000 screws in her dream yard, the original H&H piece on which went all over the world and was read by thousands and thousands of people.

“It went mad, it seemed such a simple concept to me, I never expected that!” she said. “I’ve been given the nickname ‘the Pallet Queen’.”

And Clara had a good few pallets left over, from which she has built shelving units and three beds.

“Once you start, it becomes an addiction!” she said.

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Thinking about renovating your stable yard? Read these top tips

Rachel Fraser — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:00:47 +0000

Have you taken on a new equestrian property? Or are you looking to give your stables a bit of a face lift? We spoke to the experts to get their advice on where to start…

Converting an existing building

“If you are lucky enough to have existing outbuildings, it will prove more economical to convert these into stables, rather than build from scratch,” advises Lorelei Tomkins, marketing manager and PR for Monarch Equestrian.

“However, you will still need planning permission, even if you aren’t changing the exterior. Some points to consider when converting an existing barn include: the concrete floor, does this need relaying? Is the drainage appropriate? Is there enough height? Will you need to house a tack room, wash bay or feed room within the same building? Is there adequate light and ventilation?

“Employing the help of a professional, whether builder or stable expert is recommended, to ensure that you have considered all aspects involved with the conversion,” says Lorelei.

Make it airy

Ventilation is key to keeping our horses healthy explains Neil Hancox, of Hancox Equestrian, so evaluating your ventilation and whether you could improve it can be a good place to start.

“Ventilation is the most crucial thing to consider before anything else,” advises Neil. “Your building needs to be a dry and airy environment. It should have a vented ridge to allow warm and stale air to escape. Our Hancox Barn includes a ventilated soffit to assist with air movement as well as a raised, ventilated roof ridge. Air needs to be able to enter a building, circulate and then exit. I always recommend front and back steel-framed windows to help with this, as not only do they offer more opportunities for air to flow in, they give the horse natural light and a choice of views which can help reduce stable vices.

“Buildings for horses need to balance preventing drafts with good ventilation. The cladding you choose is also important, especially if you’re modifying an existing building. Some cladding commonly used for buildings housing cattle is not well suited to horses.”

Smaller changes with a big impact

Renovating your yard might not always call for a total overhaul, sometimes, smaller changes like sprucing up stable doors, can provide a refreshed look and feel.

Jacob Consterdine, a former sales manager of a stabling company, explains: “The biggest thing I would say on this is that it is probably undervalued is how big of a difference new stable doors and windows can make to a building. Just these simple aspects can change the feel of the building.”

Alice Roberts, former marketing manager of Cheval Liberte UK, agrees: “Replacing features such as windows and doors is a cost-effective way of adding class and security to your barn. Teamed with a lick of paint, you can transform any building into functioning stabling fit for your horses, with both standard and made-to-measure services on offer.

“Plexi-Glass windows, shutters and stable doors are a great way of providing quality ventilation into a stable block, improving conditions for the accommodated horses and improving their overall health, as well as improving the aesthetics of the building.”

Check the roof

Jacob also highlights the importance of a good roof: “Obviously every job is different. Some customers come to us with roofs falling in on stables that have been up 50 years, others want replacement anti chew tin around the doors and everything in between.

“The majority of the time, if a new roof is put on and new stable doors are fitted then it adds at least another 10 years onto the building.”

Lighten up

When it comes to creating light and airy stables, James Scott, managing director of Scotts of Thrapston, shares his advice: “There are some things that people tend to make do with in their stables, the most common is the light levels in loose boxes. Scotts do not recommend light panels in the roof, as these increase heat and are quite costly to fit. Instead we recommend a rear top door or glazed rear top door. These increase light and air flow, as well as keeping the horse entertained when in the box with another view to look at. They are relatively easy to fit.

“Scotts would also recommend internal linings, as it will add to the structural integrity of timber boxes. Budget stable suppliers normally only have the bottom 1.2m lined, this is not ideal as dust collects in the gap making them a poorer environment, harder to clean and gives the horse more edges to chew.”

Get stuck in

If your yard is structurally sound but you’d like to give it a new look, then it may be time to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in yourself.

A fresh coat of paint can give your stables a whole new look. Dark greens and browns are popular choices to blend in with surroundings, but some opt for brighter designs too. It’s worth checking with your local planning office first if you’re dreaming of a colourful change, particularly if you’re in a conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty.

Pinterest is a great source of inspiration for everything from traditional timber designs to multi-coloured Shetland-sized stable doors.

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How to get planning permission for stables

Emily Bevan — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:00:44 +0000

If you are intending to build a new permanent equestrian structure, the first step is to seek planning permission for stables from your local planning authority before starting. In some cases, planning permission will also be required for a field shelter.

“It is essential to obtain permission as this ensures you are lawfully allowed to build your equestrian development. Failure to do so can result in costly enforcement action by the local planning authority and ultimately possible demolition of the building,” explains Tony Stevens, a technical and stable design manager.

The local planning authority (LPA) is responsible for deciding whether building work can take place as they manage the development and use of towns, cities and the countryside. Planning permission is not so much about the size of the building but its location and intended use. It also takes into consideration the design and look of the building, how it will be accessed, the impact the building will have on the environment as well as ensuring the building complies with health and safety regulations.

“It’s very important to think about site access — not just about getting your own horse lorry there but also how 20 tonne delivery lorries will gain entry during the construction phase,” says Stuart Bark, managing director at Chapelstone Equestrian Construction.

“Always apply for more than you want so you can compromise and cut down. If your building ends up having a smaller footprint than what you applied for they won’t mind, but if you want a bigger footprint you will have problems.”

The first step to obtaining planning permission for stables is to contact your planning department for advice. Ask for their help and find out if there are any specific guidelines you need to know about before starting your application as all LPAs are different. They can also advise on what is more likely to be accepted.

“Your planning application will depend on the size of the development and the LPA in question. As a bare minimum a planning application for a stable block will require submission of application forms, location plans and elevation drawings of your proposed stable block,” says Tony.

“In addition to the above, and especially for larger builds, the LPA may also ask for specialist reports such as flood risk assessments, ecological surveys or landscape schemes.”

Once you have submitted your application the wait to find out if you have been successful is normally two to three months, but has been known to take considerably longer. During this period the site will be inspected, neighbours may be consulted and your local authority may come back to you with suggested amendments.

Identifying any business or rural benefit that will be derived from the new structure can aid your application as the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which promotes a prosperous rural economy, will be considered where relevant to the planning application.

It is important to be as flexible as possible regarding the design and location of your proposed structure as this may make the difference as to whether or not your application is successful. Once your local planning authority gives you a final answer you will either be able to proceed with the build or need to consider their proposed changes.

Planning permission for stables: top tips

Be polite, helpful and honest with the local planning authority at all stages of the application.
Be realistic with your application and sympathetic to your surroundings.
Inform your neighbours of your plans, listen to any feedback they may have and keep them informed throughout the process: “It’s important to have surrounding neighbours on side as they will be notified of the development and have the opportunity to voice any appropriate concerns,” continues Tony.
If possible choose a location that is close to existing buildings as councils prefer this. “Don’t choose a position that is close to waterways due to the flood risk or lots of trees as you can’t build within the root structure envelope,” says Stuart.
Do not start to build your new structure until planning permission has been granted.

Loose boxes or American barns? H&H investigates the pros and cons

Stephanie Bateman — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 13:02:51 +0000

If you are considering establishing a new yard, one of the first choices you will have to make is whether to choose loose boxes or American barn stabling.

When choosing what buildings or barn to incorporate into your equestrian project, space and the surrounding buildings play a big part.

“Planning permission will be needed for all permanent equestrian builds such as a barns or external stable block,” says Lorelei Tomkins of Monarch Equestrian. “What will need to be taken into consideration is; the style of which the build will be, the space surrounding it and it’s access, and also the impact on the area in which it will sit. Normally looking at buildings near your plot of land can give you some indication of what is more likely to be accepted.”

Choosing which type of stabling is better for you is a personal decision, but sometimes planning can play a big part in that choice.

“When space is premium or planning guidelines need to be adhered to then external stable blocks may be the easier answer, as they generally have a smaller footprint,” adds Lorelei. “If you are in doubt, speak to your local planning officer for advice.”

“Well-situated and designed, both options offer a first-class environment for horses and the final decision between the two systems is likely to be a matter of personal preference and the requirements of the local authority planning office,” says Scotts of Thrapston’s Julia Berrie. “However, there are some important considerations.”

• Cost is always a significant factor and American barns tend to work out significantly more expensive than loose boxes for the same stabling capacity. Obviously, you will get more for your money and the size of the building, coupled with some other benefits, might well make up for the added expense.

• Planning permission is usually more difficult to obtain for American Barns, especially in sensitive locations. The increased ridge height and more modern style of building can invite opposition from the planners. Loose boxes, by contrast, can be configured in a much more “traditional” way, with a less intrusive ridge height, that blends in better with the surroundings.

• In working yards, especially in riding schools and livery yards, American barns are popular since everything is in one place and arranged around a central passageway. This results in less walking for grooms and a more efficient workplace.

• Both options can be fully “customised” to suit individual requirements. Colours, layouts, styles and architectural details can be altered to suit either the desires of the customer or the stipulations of the planners.

• Loose boxes offer greater scope for increasing the capacity and expanding the yard while retaining the original design scheme. By simply “adding on” more loose boxes using the same materials a larger yard can grow incrementally from a small one.

• Mucking out in the winter is much more pleasant for the grooms in an American barn. A central, covered passage gives total shelter from both wind and rain. Large sliding doors at either end of the passage allow access for a trailer or barrow, or even a tractor.

• Horses hate draughts and while the clear top-storey in an American barn gives excellent high-level ventilation, the internal partitioning stops draughts at horse level. In loose boxes, a ventilated ridge can give the same benefit but they are generally not as well ventilated.

• Natural light enters an American barn through the open top storey, giving good illumination throughout the day and giving a generally “airy” feel. Loose boxes need more artificial lighting to achieve the same effect.

• Loose boxes offer better isolation facilities. If a horse needs to be kept apart, for health or behavioural reasons, then it will be easier to manage in a loose box with its own outlook rather than in a box within a barn set-up.

• With an American barn, if one horse gets sick, they probably all will. This is, however, less likely to happen in a traditional stabling set-up.

• Horses are generally sociable creatures and they appreciate the shared view of each other within an American barn. An alternative view can also be provided by adding a rear-top door and this situation can lead to happier horses than the more secluded existence within loose boxes.

• Internal partitioning within an American barn is easier to re-arrange to suit changing circumstances, whereas loose boxes offer less flexibility, once built.

• Although American barns offer complete shelter from the elements, loose boxes fitted with a 6’ overhang will provide excellent shelter from all but the most persistent storms or driving rain. Careful orientation at the design stage can also guard against the prevailing wind and make the most of the natural light available.

Sometimes, adding new stables depends on existing buildings in the vicinity.

“The majority of the time, we end up designing new buildings around existing buildings on site as most people like to match things such as roofing materials and wall cladding,” says Scott Green, former business development manager of a stabling company. “The good thing with standard type loose box stables is they are a lot more flexible with regards to design, as we can build lots of different, weird and wonderful shapes and sizes.”

A lot depends on the materials you use, too.

“With timber American barns you are quite restricted as we have limits to how far the timber can span,” adds Scott. “However, with steel framed buildings you can do more, but you will end up spending more.”

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Looking for stable yard inspiration? Check out these 13 beautiful stables

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:30:59 +0000

Most of us are more than happy with where our horses and ponies currently reside, but we can’t help but drool over these insanely beautiful horse stables. We’re just worried about what would happen if we dropped a strand of hay…

We’ve rounded up just a few of our favourites that are sure to make you jaw drop.

Have you ever seen more beautiful horse stables than these?

DarkHorse Equestrian, Connecticut, USA

We love how light and airy this yard feels — what about mud though?

Wellington, USA

Chandelier, anyone?

Mount St John, North Yorkshire

Some of the horse stabled in the Competition Yard at Mount St John Equestrian in the village of Felixkirk near Thirsk in North Yorkshire in the UK on 13th March 2018 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

These dressage horses live the life of luxury

Stallion AI Services, Shropshire

The stables and feed barn just part of the fantastic new facilities which were opened in April 2017 at Stallion AI Services near Whitchurch in the county of Shropshire in the UK on the 20th March 2018 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

These relatively new facilities are super-smart

Jamie Gornall Showumping, North Yorkshire

Care has been taken to ensure that the stables are large and airy, with great ventilation and thoughtful design, which allows the horses to see each other.

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(Image credit: creditUnknown)

This British yard has a real continental feel

Kohala Ranch, Hawiaii

The gold detail in this yard adds a certain je ne sais quoi

Maastricht, Netherlands

How about showjumper Katharina Offel’s modest set-up?

Geneva, Switzerland

This place looks like something out of a museum

Indoor arena goals

We wouldn’t mind riding in here

The tackroom of dreams

Dubai

Even in the heat of the Middle East, these horses look pretty cool

Bourne Hill, West Sussex

This is on our doorstep — isn’t is beautiful?

GLOCK Horse Performance Centre, Netherlands

No matter how smart the yard, every one needs a dog in it.

(Image credit: Future)

How to get planning permission for stables

(Image credit: Future)

How to improve your stable yard: things to consider

As part of HorseandHound.co.uk’s online focus on stabling, here are five things to consider before starting work on your yard

(Image credit: Future)

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Horse owner fined more than £12,000 after building stables on her land

Becky Murray — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 18:32:45 +0000

An owner who was taken to court after building stables and keeping horses on her land in a National Park without permission has been fined £12,000 and ordered to remove them.

On 4 September Jane Soul, 65, of Eastleigh, Hampshire, appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court where she was found guilty of breaching three planning notices.

In 2013 Ms Soul was served with enforcement notices by South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) ordering her to remove stables and stop keeping horses on land in Privett, South Downs National Park.

A spokesman for East Hampshire District Council said Ms Soul initially complied with the notices, but between 2016 and 2020 she started to “redevelop the site with new, larger stables and new hard surfacing”.

(Image credit: East Hampshire District Council)

“She then purchased further land to the south of the site and placed a residential style caravan and shipping container with a catchment tank. The caravan was fitted with mains water connection, drainage, and had gas connected for heat and cooking. More shelters were erected and she continued to keep horses on the site,” he said.

“As a result, planning enforcement officers, working on behalf of the South Downs National Park Authority, issued a further order in 2021, ordering her to remove the development.”

The judge said Ms Soul’s actions “showed a deliberate failure to comply with the planning authority and that the requirements of the notices were crystal clear.”

In mitigation it was put forward that there was “no financial benefit from the developmental ambition beyond caring for horses” and that Miss Soul had received “contradictory advice” about what could be done. A new planning consultant is due to assist Miss Soul moving forwards and look to work with the council to find ways in which the land can be lawfully used.

Councillor Angela Glass, East Hampshire District Council’s portfolio holder for regulation and enforcement said the council is “going to be tough” on people who breach its planning rules.

“We have reinforced our planning enforcement team to protect the rural areas and countryside of East Hampshire from harmful development,” she said.

“This has been a long-running case but our enforcement teams don’t give up lightly. I am very pleased we have managed to bring this case to court and the council has successfully prosecuted the offenders.”

Tim Slaney, director of planning at SDNPA, added that the National Park was designated for its “wonderful landscape and natural beauty, to be enjoyed by the whole nation”.

“In order to protect this treasured area that brings so many benefits to both nature and people, we need to be tough when planning rules are so blatantly ignored and real damage is done,” he said.

“I would like to commend the East Hampshire team for their persistence and resilience in achieving this successful outcome.”

Ms Soul was ordered to pay more than £12,000 in fines and costs and must return the site to its original condition.

Fancy keeping your horses at home? Useful tips for building a stable yard

Rachel Fraser — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 12:02:00 +0000

Building stables can present as many pitfalls as building your own home. Before you start thinking about stable design and type, check whether you need planning permission; in most cases, even when use is private rather than commercial, you will.

The only exceptions are where stables are built within the curtilage of the house, but a lack of hard definitions means it’s always best to consult your local planning office. It may also be needed if you convert existing buildings, so don’t take chances.

A chat with your neighbours to explain your plans in advance will often go a long way. Concerns or misconceptions about noise and smell, for example, can often easily be overcome with some reassurance that these are things you’ve considered.

If your site is in the middle of nowhere, remember that manufacturers need access for large lorries. If access to your site is very narrow, consider how to work around this and make sure you let suppliers and workmen know in advance so they can plan too!

If your stables are going next to an existing building, allow enough space between the two for the building crew to manoeuvre. Remember to factor in any ‘extras’ you might want. For example, do you need a tack room or hay storage area building in?

How to build stables: key considerations

Once you’ve got the go-ahead, check out manufacturers and conversion specialists. Your chosen specialists will offer help on everything from base construction to design, but points to keep in mind include:

The base is as important, and perhaps expensive, as the stables. Stables are made to fit, so it’s worth getting the base laid professionally.
Think long-term. Buy the best and as much as you can afford: if you eventually plan extra buildings, build your base accordingly.
The bigger the box, the better. The standard 12ft by 12ft stable is really too small for anything over 16hh. Dirty horses are cleaner in big boxes – something you’ll appreciate if you’re doing the mucking out!
Good ventilation is vital. High level vents, preferably at the ridge, are essential.
Go for high pitched ceilings, which will allow a greater volume of air to dilute ammonia from urine.
A window in the back as well as the front is a plus point for ventilation and your horse will appreciate the extra view.
Compatible horses will prefer grilles between stables rather than blank walls, but position manger and haynets carefully so that there is no jealousy or squabbling.
Don’t skimp on kickboards — flying hooves go a long way — or chew strips.
American barns are great for the people who work in them, but need extra thought putting into their design to safeguard horse’s respiratory health.
Choose your storage options carefully. Storing hay or straw next to or above stables could undo your work installing good ventilation, so try to create a separate storage area if possible. You should also consider fire safety.

Need help? Speak to your local authority planning office, chosen specialists, or try the agricultural advisory by visiting www.adas.co.uk.

Horse stable design ideas that’ll help you build your perfect yard

bethany.stone@futurenet.com (Bethany Stone) — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:15:00 +0000

Ever watched those luxury yard tour videos that pop up on Youtube? If so, you’ll have seen some horse stable design ideas that are truly out of this world.

Often, though, it’s not simply the high-end fittings and expensive materials that catch the eye when it comes to stables and stable design. Sometimes, the features that really make you go “ooh” are those that turn back-breaking yard chores into a doddle.

“A luxurious yard is often one where every detail is carefully considered,” says Victoria Webb, sales representative at Monarch Stables.

Victoria adds that before becoming absorbed in planning out your design ideas, you must ensure your solutions address the needs at hand.

“The best options depend on the available space, the number of horses and whether the stables are being built as part of a new structure or installed within an existing building,” Victoria continues.

Planning permission for new stable designs

According to Monarch, planning permission might not always be necessary for upgrading or building stables.

“It depends on the location, existing use of the land, the proposed use of the stables and the type of work being carried out,” says Victoria.

“New equestrian buildings can require planning permission, and changes to existing buildings may also require consent depending on the scale and nature of the work. Owners should always check with their local planning authority before starting work.”

“Seeking planning permission for stables is your responsibility and it must be granted before any work begins,” says a spokesman for Prime Stables. “Otherwise, you could be served an enforcement notice.”

Prime Stables’ pre-planning checklist includes:

Discussing your plans with your local planning authority as early as possible.
Planning well in advance as the planning process may take longer than you think. In fact, the statutory guideline for an application is 8 weeks (13 weeks for any major permitted developments).
Speaking to any neighbours who may be affected as early as possible. This will give you time to work through any objections and accommodate their concerns in your final applications.
Being flexible with your design and location, as this could make the difference between having an application accepted or refused.
Considering using experienced architects and planning consultants, which will make the whole process so much easier.

How easily can you access turnout from your proposed yard site? (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

Choosing stable location and layout

Horse stable design ideas start with stable layout and location. No one layout suits every yard.

According to Chart Stables, important considerations include…

Ground conditions: “Suitable ground conditions are essential,” says a spokesman for Chart Stables. “Ideally, horse stables should be positioned on naturally dry, firm, well-drained ground. Low-lying or soft ground can quickly become muddy. The constant exposure to moisture can increase the risk of rot and lead to more maintenance.”
Orientation: “Position stables so that the doors are sheltered from the strongest prevailing winds, which can carry driving rain. Positioning for natural light at the front of the block can help keep the area brighter and drier during the day while the boxes still provide shade. Encouraging natural airflow means you should avoid placing the stables in areas tightly enclosed by buildings or dense planting.”
Access: “Good access allows deliveries, vets, and farriers to reach the stables easily. Consider whether larger vehicles can turn safely near the block. Hay deliveries, bedding suppliers, and horseboxes often require more space than expected.”
The future: “Many owners start with a small number of horse stables and add additional boxes, storage, or shelter later. Leaving some open space around the stable block allows the layout to adapt if your needs change.”

Single row

This layout is just how it sounds – a sole linear block of stables.

“This is a simple and versatile option for both external stable yards and internal stable installations,” says Victoria of Monarch. “It works particularly well on narrower sites or within long buildings.”

Pros:

Simple and efficient layout
Straightforward access and visibility along the stable fronts
Can work well where space is limited
Often easier to extend in the future

Cons:

Facilities, such as tack rooms, feed rooms and wash bays, can be further away if not carefully positioned
Less compact than a courtyard-style layout

L-shaped layout

L-shaped stables (Image credit: Emma Herrod )

As the number of external stables expands, so too does the length of time it takes to move between them and amenities like the tack room. However, a growing footprint also means room for further features.

Victoria takes us through the advantages and challenges associated with an L shape.

Pros:

Makes good use of corners and awkward spaces
Can create a more enclosed and sheltered yard
Can help separate different areas, such as stabling and storage or grooming facilities like a wash bay

Cons:

The corner and access routes need to be carefully planned
The available space needs to be large enough to make the layout practical

“It's important to think about how horses, people and equipment will move around the space every day,” says Victoria. “For example, if the corner of the ‘L’ is too tight, it can make it difficult to turn a wheelbarrow, manoeuvre a horse safely, or bring in machinery such as a compact tractor or bedding delivery.

“Planning wider walkways, positioning tack and feed rooms where they are easy to reach and ensuring stable doors don't clash when opened can make a significant difference. Small design decisions at the planning stage often have the biggest impact on how practical the yard feels once it’s in daily use.”

If you dream of an L-shaped yard but space is tight, it might be worth reconsidering.

“If the available space is too restricted, the yard can quickly become congested,” adds Victoria. “Narrow passages make it harder to lead horses safely, store equipment or carry out everyday tasks such as mucking out and feeding.

“Rather than trying to fit too many stables into a limited footprint, it’s often better to reduce the number of boxes or consider an alternative layout. A well-designed yard that functions efficiently will always outperform one that simply maximises the number of stables.”

U-shaped layout

U-shaped layout (Image credit: Megan Saunders / Future)

From an aesthetic and practical standpoint, U-shaped layouts are a popular choice where space allows. “It’s a brilliant option for larger stable yards or buildings where stables can be arranged around a central courtyard or working area,” says Victoria.

Pros:

Creates a central, contained working space
Good visibility across the yard
Can keep several stable blocks and facilities connected
Can create an attractive traditional courtyard feel

Cons:

Requires more space
The central area needs to allow enough room for horses, people and equipment to move safely

“The courtyard should comfortably accommodate the activities that will take place there every day, advises Victoria. “As a general guide, there should be enough space for two horses to pass each other safely, while still allowing room for people, wheelbarrows or other equipment to move around without creating bottlenecks.

“If owners expect deliveries, tractors or trailers to enter the courtyard, this should also be considered during the design stage.”

American Barn

American barn (Image credit: Peret Nixon )

American barns boast the benefits of internal stabling in an existing space with the added layer of a purpose-built, bespoke horse stable design.

“The building is constructed to accommodate the stable layout, with the stables manufactured to suit the planned design and generally using standard-sized (12ftx12ft) stable bays,” says Victoria. “This allows the overall building and stable arrangement to work together as one cohesive design.”

“My own preference is firmly for the American barn,” says George Clark of Elmtree Construction. “The construction is much simpler, you’re fully sheltered from the weather while you're working, and you can do so much more with the space once it’s up. It can have a smaller total footprint, which is a real advantage when it comes to planning.”

Victoria adds: “The key difference is that internal stables within an existing building need to work around the building that is already there, whereas an American Barn is designed and built around the stable layout from the outset.”

Pros:

Stables and building are designed as one complete system
Excellent protection from the weather
Allows stables and facilities to be brought together under one roof
Particularly suitable for larger yards and multiple horses

Cons:

May require more space and investment than simply installing stables within an existing building
The building layout needs to be carefully planned from the beginning

Adding internal stables to an existing building

Building internal stables is perfect for minimising the weather’s impact on yard life, and means you don’t have to be out in all elements while you do your yard chores.

“Internal stables can be designed using standard-sized bays or bespoke dimensions, depending on the size, shape and features of the existing building,” says Victoria.

“The layout may be linear, L-shaped or U-shaped, and the design needs to take into account existing doors, windows, roof supports, pillars, access points and services.

“This flexibility can make it possible to create a highly individual stable layout within an existing barn or building.”

Where should the tack room go?

(Image credit: Alamy)

Amenities such as the tack room should be placed strategically and around your daily routine.

George says it’s wise to group your stables together and group your working rooms together.

“Whichever layout you go for, I’d always push clients to place these rooms together. That way, water, power and data can run straight from one room to the next without having to span long distances externally or through the roof of the block.

“I’d also put the wash bay right next to that cluster of rooms, so the water supply can come straight out of the closed-off room and into the wash bay, rather than having to run through the stables themselves.”

As a jumping-off point, consider placing your…

Tack room close to the stables and grooming areas.
Feed room near the stables but also accessible for deliveries
Wash bay close to the stable area, with good drainage and ventilation
Kitchen/staff room near the entrance and away from wet or dirty areas

If your horse stable design ideas need to be applied to a large yard, it might be worth splitting one tack room or feed room into multiple of each to save excessively long trips.

Streamlining routes and workflow

(Image credit: Sarah Farnsworth )

Making journeys shorter and smoother (for example, from turnout to stable or from stable to tack room) will make your equestrian life easier every day.

“Keep the muckheap accessible but away from the main yard where possible, and position feed and bedding storage near delivery access,” says Victoria. “If you can, avoid unnecessary crossing between horse, pedestrian and vehicle routes.

“Storage should also be located where items are actually used, rather than making people walk back and forth across the yard.”

Making smart use of space also pays dividends.

George Clark says: “If you go for an American barn, one thing I always recommend is upgrading the ceiling so you can use the roof void for storage. Otherwise, that's just dead space going to waste.”

Future proofing/updating current stables

Monarch’s broad advice is to allow space for future stables, storage and equipment, and consider future electrical, water and drainage requirements that may come with expansion.

“Existing yards can often be future-proofed by improving storage, lighting, ventilation, drainage and access, rather than needing a complete rebuild,” says Victoria.

More specifically, you can:

Upgrade to weatherboarding: “The overlapping boards of weatherboarding are fitted horizontally to create a weather-resistant barrier that protects the underlying structure from the elements, improving the building’s longevity,” says a spokesman from Chart Stables.
Make your design customisable: “With an American barn, choose a nice wide central walkway with prefabricated stables rather than blockwork,” advises George Clark. “That way, if your needs change down the line, you can take the stables out and rearrange them rather than being stuck with a fixed layout.”
Add a rear door: According to Chart Stables, adding rear doors enhances cross-ventilation and natural airflow. “Increasing eaves height also improves internal airflow. It allows warm air to rise and escape more easily, helping to maintain a cooler, well-ventilated environment during the summer months.”
Install internal kickboards: “Kickboarding protects your stable walls from impact damage caused by horses kicking or pawing,” adds the Chart Stables spokesman. “Fitted around the interior walls, it absorbs impact and prevents splintering or structural wear.”

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Rider who could not afford her dream stables built them – with dismantled pallets and 10,000 screws

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 11 Dec 2022 19:51:32 +0000

A rider who could not afford £25,000 for her dream stables built them herself, out of dismantled pallets.

Clara Fingerhut has taken apart more than 250 pallets, and got through more than 10,000 screws, and now has something unique and functional, which is a work of art.

Clara told H&H she moved to her new home in Brittany, France, in February, knowing she wanted four stables in the barn on site.

“I was looking at internal stables before I moved,” she said. “The idea was to spend on the fancy ones I’ve always wanted. But there were so many other things that needed doing; all the post and rail fencing, a track down to the barn for deliveries, the money was getting lower and lower, and I realised I couldn’t afford the stables.”

Clara’s first thought was to put something in herself that would do, and could be replaced in future with the ones she really wanted.

“But I think I prefer what I’ve got!” she said.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Clara, who has always loved DIY but had never done anything like this, has as yet been unable to work, as a groom, since she has lived in France owing to her nationality, so she had time to become, temporarily, a builder.

She cleared the barn, which was “full of old tat”, and engaged a professional to level the floor, add stones for drainage, lay rubber matting on top and concrete in vertical posts.

Then she went on the hunt for pallets.

“Luckily, I became friends with the guy who did the work and he’s a landscape gardener who does all sorts of other bits, and always gets pallets,” she said. “I got a lot from him, and from other people, and a local DIY store.

“The first one took me two and a half hours to take apart. I was determined but thought ‘How the hell am I going to be able to do enough?’ But I’ve found out that’s the more difficult type; the others weren’t easy but they were easier. I wasn’t really a pallet expert – but I am now!”

Clara separated each pallet into its component slim planks, which she then screwed on to 2x4s, or the equivalent from a shed she had thought was only fit for the dump, but turned out to have sound wood. All were cut to length, to make the partitions, the front and rear walls, and even the doors and a window.

The window proved problematic; she wanted a diamond shape to discourage chewing but this was unsuccessful, so she found a company that bends sheet metal, and did so for the window and the doors.

The result, after weeks of work, is two complete stables, one 5×5.5m, the other 4x5m, with a window in between and more to the rear, and two more that are in progress. And now her mares Gertie and Tallulah are installed and happy, she is working on the tack room. This has a more substantial roof to be used for storage but is also otherwise a pallet-based creation.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I was quite proud of my work, not only because I’d built my own solid stables to house my horses, but because they also turned out to be a work of art!” Clara said.

“My horses have their own colours and Tallulah’s is pink, so I was planning to paint it a soft pink but I like the different colours of the planks; it looks really rustic and cosy, and I love the look and feel of it.

“I cried when I first got the horses in. I’ve always been a livery and on someone else’s yard, but this was mine and I could do what I wanted. Tallulah’s 27, bless her, and likes her creature comforts, and she was so happy to come in, in her enormous stable. I was over the moon. When the roof went on the tack room, I sat up there for hours, just looking at the stables.”

Clara added that although she would not have been disappointed had she been able to put in her original dream stables, “because I wouldn’t have known about this”, she is delighted with what she has, and the fact it was built with her own hands.

“It’s got its own personality,” she said.

“I’m not rich, nor am I posh, nor have I ever even had a horse on full livery. I’m just a groom who wanted the best possible life for her horses and did everything in her power to make that happen. I hope it inspires people to follow their dreams without needing to break the bank.”

Ways to create an eco-friendly stable yard

Stephanie Bateman — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 11:00:23 +0000

Stephanie Bateman investigates how to build or adapt stables on a low carbon footprint and why constructing a yard need not be a drain on the environment

Not a day goes by when the words “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” don’t make it into conversation, and rightly so. But the good news for those building or improving their stable yard is that there are plenty of ways we can reduce our negative impact on the environment.

“Whether you are designing a yard from scratch or making adjustments to an older yard, there are designs and materials that can improve sustainability and reduce your carbon footprint,” says Scott Green, business development manager of The Stable Company.

“We take sustainability very seriously and only use timber from suppliers that are FSC [Forest Stewardship Council] certified, giving us and our clients peace of mind that the buildings we provide are sourced responsibly. We are also mindful that the products we use reach the required structural requirements without over-engineering the buildings and wasting timber during installation.”

For the stables’ base, concrete is traditionally used. “Concrete can have a high carbon footprint, so we encourage our clients to look into new products to reduce the amount of concrete needed,” adds Scott. “For example, products such as the HippoTile flooring system reduce the amount of concrete and bedding required.”

Scott also advises clients to investigate other options, such as recycling rainwater. “We have had a number of clients who use rainwater-harvesting tanks to store the water and reuse around the yard, plus auto-drinkers save on water wastage,” he says. “We design our buildings to withstand the weight of solar panels or solar hot water systems, and we have used wind power and battery storage for people who are off the grid and want to reduce their carbon footprint. Changing lights to LED is another big eco-friendly save.”

The benefits of wood

In terms of construction materials, wood has a multitude of benefits.

“Today’s timber products combine the qualities of a natural resource with the high performance of modern building materials,” says James Scott, managing director of Scotts of Thrapston. “Timber is a natural insulator, so in the summer stables remain cooler and they keep warmer in the winter months.

“When it is sustainable and responsibly sourced, there is a positive impact on climate change, too. Wood requires CO2 to grow and, therefore, becomes a key part in the defence against climate change,” James continues. “Sourcing wood from sustainably managed forests helps encourage biodiversity, increases forestation and maximises CO2 absorption.”

Wood also delivers on speed, cost and resource efficiency. “It is a much more eco-friendly option than brick or block-built stables and, due to fewer deliveries thanks to being relatively lightweight and transportable, it promotes cleaner roads,” advises James.

In the yard design process, James advises that the layout should include landscaped areas to break up areas of concrete and tarmac.

“This is so that the water can drain naturally and remove the pressure from your drainage system which, if overwhelmed, can cause flooding.”

Eco-friendly tiles are also becoming increasingly popular. “We offer tiles that are made from recycled plastic and others that are fully recyclable,” says James. “It’s also worth considering installing sun pipes to allow more natural lighting into the building, and careful planning of the layout could include larger storage areas to minimise numbers of deliveries to the yard when it comes to bedding and forage.”

For stabling flooring, products such as HippoTile are in favour. HippoTile is made from 100% recycled plastic and allows wet to drain away, which ultimately results in reduced carbon emissions.

“Using comparative figures for one 12x12ft stable, the HippoTile floor creates over 80% less carbon dioxide than the concrete floor,” explains HippoTile’s creator Janet Warner.

“Because a HippoTile floor is warmer, more forgiving and kinder to joints, less bedding is required to create a comfortable bed. And, because it allows urine and water to drain through it, less bedding is discarded which not only saves money, but has a positive environmental impact, too.”

A thriving equestrian property

It’s not just stable manufacturers doing their bit for the environment. Dickie Waygood, British Equestrian Federation (BEF) performance director, bought a run-down house with land 11 years ago and, over the years, has gradually built it up into a thriving equestrian property, with an indoor stable barn, horse walker and arena.

“I was stone broke, so I had to come up with ingenious solutions to build what I wanted with no money,” he said. “My barn is from Cheval Liberté, which was delivered on hundreds of wooden pallets which I used to build shelves, saddle racks and bridle hooks in the tack room as well as an internal ceiling in the barn for storage and an outside shed to house the batteries for the solar panels located on the groom’s flat roof.”

Dickie did a lot of the work himself, laying the concrete and putting up buildings to save money and reduce his carbon footprint.

“I also collect rainwater to wash the horses and dirty kit with, which reduces my water usage,” he adds.

Event rider William Fox-Pitt rents an Archimedean screw hydro turbine, which is situated in a river two miles from their property. “It generates electricity which we sell to the grid to offset the electricity we use,” says William’s wife, Alice.

“We have solar panels on the indoor school roof, which power the yard; and our muck from the stables is spread on the farmland.”

Alice is also looking into ways to reduce plastic waste. “We use a milk station down the road and a company supplies us with canned water for the lorry,” she says. “We are also in talks with innovative recycle firm TerraCycle about coming up with a way of recycling the baler twine, haylage wrap and shavings bags, but that’s a work in progress.”

First published in Horse & Hound; 9 April 2020

Safe, eco-friendly and budget-friendly: H&H’s stable lighting tips

Emily Bevan — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 07:25:04 +0000

As the nights start drawing it, you may be considering giving your horse stable lighting an overhaul. If your stables are not on mains power, then solar-powered lights are worth considering as an alternative to an expensive and noisy generator. Rechargeable lights are another option.

Top tips for stable lighting

1. If possible use LED lights as they have a long lifespan, are more energy efficient and operate well in cold and hot temperatures. Strip LED lights are very common in stables.

“Due to the way technology has advanced, LED lights are the most popular as they give the cheapest and most uniform lighting,” explains Stuart Bark, managing director of Chapelstone Equestrian Construction.

2. Put a plastic safety cover over all lights so if a horse rears in its stable or the bulb breaks it won’t shatter and cause injury or contaminate the horse’s bedding.

3. Avoid shadowy areas when positioning lights.

4. Ensure all exterior lights are weatherproof.

5. Make sure any internal cabling is in conduits. Don’t leave exposed wires which a horse or rodent could chew on.

“It’s important to keep light switches out of a horse’s way. Often somewhere which is convenient for a human to reach will also be convenient for horses to turn on and off so we tend to place any light switches behind the top stable door so a horse can’t access them,” continues Stuart.

6. Place the consumer unit somewhere like the tack or feed room so it is well away from the horses.

7. If your stable block doesn’t have mains power, solar powered lights can be a good option. If you want to fix solar powered LED lights to the roof, investigate whether the roof will be able to support the weight of the panels and how they will be attached.

8. Installing movement sensor lights outside the stable block or at the entrance to the yard can be useful and also a good safety deterrent.

If you are on mains power, check that your cabling is sufficent to carry the load and the use will not exceed the maximum wattage. You should factor in other items such as kettles, cookers or hay steamers that will be using the electricity. The distance the electricity needs to travel also needs to be looked at.

“Electricity is like water, the further it needs to go the wider the cable will need to be,” says Stuart.

Always ensure you use a qualified electrician so all work is carried out professionally and to the required safety standard.

How green is your yard? 6 budget-busting eco-friendly solutions

Liz Falkingham — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 07:25:02 +0000

Eco-friendly design can be incorporated into everything from light bulbs to storage solutions — and it could save you money too

When David Andrews from equestrian riding surfaces manufacturer Andrews Bowen says he believes water will one day be as expensive as oil, it’s not hard to see why the company has invested in sustainability technology.

Equaflow, their sustainable water storage, irrigation and conditioning system for surfaces, was used at the London 2012 Olympics, and is installed at Bolesworth, David O’Meara and Dan Skelton’s racing yards and showjumper Shane Breen’s base.

“Reusing water is essential,” says David. “Hot countries such as Spain already know what a big factor water is, where competition horses can use up to 100 litres a day for drinking and washing off, but there’s a growing understanding of it here, too.”

Reusing water can be as simple, however, as ensuring run-off from the stable or indoor arena roof is captured.

“Deep-flow gutters ensure rainwater run-off is captured and directed into a tank storage system, which can then be pumped out for reuse in the stables or wash areas. There’s also the potential to use it for arena watering as well,” says Total Equestrian Construction’s Steve Keen, who adds that the water needs to be used regularly to avoid stagnation in the tank.

Installing a water butt under a downspout is low-key and low-cost, but great for washing down horses or filling buckets.

Take a look at 5 more budget-busting eco solutions

1. Go it together — if you’re on a livery yard, bulk deliveries can save money and reduce transport costs. For example, Equisorb offer a £2.16/bale discount on full pallets (18 bales per pallet).

2. Switch off — whether it’s lights, electric fencing or phone chargers not in use. This saves energy, cuts bills and reduces the risk of electrical fires. Solar electric fencing is an option where fencing needs to stay on.

3. The Energy Saving Trust advises that swapping standard bulbs and halogen spotlights for energy-saving bulbs can save £35 per year, and 120kg of carbon dioxide.

Like this? You might also enjoy reading these:

6 non-essential horsey gadgets (that we want anyway)

4. Make your own fly spray — it will cut costs and be better for the environment.

5. Reuse old containers and sacks to cut down on landfill. Leaky water trugs can be reused for storing equipment, and if you’re mulching down your muck heap, why not provide old sacks for a fill-your-own service for local gardeners?

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

How to improve your stable yard: things to consider

Horse & Hound — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 07:25:53 +0000

Even with a moderate budget, it is possible to do more than just “make do and mend” if you are looking to improve and upgrade your stables, paddocks and arenas.

There are affordable ways to transform your set-up and improve your facilities to make life easier in the present and even enhance the value of your property in the future.

As part of HorseandHound.co.uk’s online focus on stabling, here are five things to consider before starting work on your yard…

1. Avoid false economy. Tempting as it may be, going cheap can backfire if products are badly installed or of poor quality. Buy the best you can to start with and avoid throwing good money after bad where things are older or problematic.

2. Beware hidden costs. Ask for a complete breakdown of expenses before work starts and budget for extras such as necessary groundworks or the extension of electricity or water supplies. Using local manufacturers can reduce delivery costs.

3. Investigate planning. You may need permission for new facilities — even for something that constitutes a change of land use, such as installing a horse-walker. “It is essential to obtain permission for your development as this ensures you are lawfully allowed to build your equestrian development. Failure to do so can result in costly enforcement action by the local planning authority and ultimately possible demolition of the building,” explains Tony Stevens, technical and design manager at Woodhouse Stables, a timber stables manufacturer and supplier.

Article continues below…

(Image credit: Future)

How to get planning permission for stables

(Image credit: Future)

4. Consider design. Use the free consultancy services offered by many manufacturers to maximise space and budget. Clever stable siting can appeal to prospective buyers, according to Zoe Napier: “People like to look out of their bedroom or kitchen window and see their horses’ heads over the stable doors,” she says.

5. Plan ahead. Short-term pain can be worthwhile for long-term gain. Get organised early to lessen any disruption caused by building work.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

How to create your dream stable yard: top rider’s guide to success

Catherine Austen — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 07:24:02 +0000

Dressage rider and coach Ruth Edge (pictured riding at home), who formerly competed at five-star level eventing, found her ideal stable yard in Derbyshire. It had huge potential, but was rather ramshackle, so piece by piece, inch by inch, she turned it into her perfect base.

Her top tip for developing a rundown stable yard into somewhere befitting top-class competition horses?

Marry an electrician who can plumb and “do mechanical stuff”.

Looking at photographs of how it looked when she bought it back in February 2012, it is hard to believe how much she has achieved.

If you’ve always dreamt of renovating a rundown yard to create your perfect set-up, take a look at the Edges’ eight top tips:

1. Do your research — how much land do you need? What facilities do you need? Remember it can be hard to buy land close to you once you have bought your base.

2. Plan a budget to the best of your knowledge. The more information you have, the better the idea you will have of the costings.

3. Once you have your budget, increase it by at least a third. This way you will be able to finish your project without having to go back to your lenders, cap in hand.

4. Get three quotes for all major projects and, if you’re not practically minded, get three quotes for minor works as well. This will give you a fair idea of costings.

5. Once you have agreed a price with a contractor or tradesman, try very hard not to change your mind — it will cost you.

6. Take your time. As our project developed, we had better ideas and also the ability to implement them.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

(Image credit: TREVOR MEEKS)

Arena surfaces: which is the right one for you and your horse?

We take a look at the types of arena surfaces available and which could suit your needs the best

(Image credit: TREVOR MEEKS)

7. Stop every now and then to admire your work so far. Take a big glass of something and have a good look round. It will remind you of what a great place you have. Take pictures of the project as it develops, as it is easy to forget how much it has changed.

8. Try to use local tradesmen, as it’s far easier to call them back to remedy any faults — and you will also be helping your local economy.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, and in the latest issue, don’t miss our arenas special, out now (dated 6 June 2019)

A horse on the roof? You’re not hallucinating, we promise

Madeleine Silver — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:47:30 +0000

Pinch yourself: this yard is for real. Set in the ‘Pampas’ region of Argentina, this futuristic set-up is the home of six-goal polo player Nachos Figueras, the ‘David Beckham of polo’, and his picture-perfect family.

Think your newly-built American barn is cutting edge? Think again…

Lauren Shannon’s eventing blog: breaking ground on our new yard

Lauren Shannon — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 15:01:21 +0000

Well, the weather seems to be calming down at last, which is good for us eventers as things are starting to get busy.

As soon as we’ve celebrated the New Year, I think every eventer is shocked by how close the beginning of the season seems. It is nice to feel the sense of anticipation as we trundle through January and February’s dull days, and definitely helps you to get out of bed in the morning when you’ve got a long “to-do” list.

All the horses are now back in work, including the youngsters and eventers. I managed to bang my leg last week, which meant a few days out of the saddle, but I have been back riding and having dressage lessons this last week. I have jumped a few of the horses in the past week too, but my lower leg is still really bruised, so plans for arena eventing this weekend are probably on hold.

This week is actually the most anticipated of the whole year, as tomorrow we welcome Elmtree Construction to the yard to break ground on our new yard here at home. I cannot wait to get started, and I think the past few months have crawled by painfully slowly in anticipation on purpose!

We are planning on building an American barn, a covered walker and a 60x30m outdoor school in the next few months. It is everyone’s dream to be able to work from home and have something of your own outside your door, so I feel very lucky to be able to do it. We live on the Nottinghamshire/Leicestershire border, which is a hugely horse mad area, so I feel like we are making a very good move.

The only downside to our build is that it will make the next few months even busier than they normally are. However, I struggle to think of an ideal time to do anything in this job!

Although the next few months will be hard work, having professional ground works specialists in Elmtree Construction, and a brilliant craftsman in our stable and barn builder, Hancox Equestrian, I think we will manage to come out the other side incredibly happy with our new yard! Now, I think I have to get hold of some bubbles to crack on the first digger when we start…

Lauren

All Lauren’s blogs for H&H

Get H&H’s Stables and Arenas special FREE

Horse & Hound — Mon, 24 Jun 2013 15:00:39 +0000

Are you considering building stables or installing an arena but are unsure of where to start? Or maybe you want inspiration to improve your yard’s appearance without spending lots of money?

If so, then H&H’s Stables and Arenas summer special is essential reading. This free digital magazine is packed with expert advice, insider tips and inspirational ideas and pictures to help you make the most of your yard irrespective of space, time and budget.

We’ve also included contact details for some of the UK’s leading stabling and arena manufacturers, all at the click of a mouse.

The magazine is easy to use and there really is something for everyone.

Download your magazine now

How to stop stables flooding – and why it’s still important to consider this during a drought

bethany.stone@futurenet.com (Bethany Stone) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 12:48:04 +0000

Stopping stables flooding might not be top of mind at the minute. At the time of writing, most of England is officially in drought and there are hosepipe bans aplenty – we’re actually hoping for a bit of wet weather. However, keeping your stables from flooding could quickly become a pressing matter should heavy rainfall arrive.

“Drought and flooding can be closely linked,” explains Laura Hobbs of Switch Equine, an equine land management & regenerative grazing consultancy.

“After such a prolonged dry spell, many soils are currently very dry and hard-set,” she says. When rain finally arrives – particularly if it is intense – it may initially infiltrate poorly, with more water running off the surface instead, taking the soil along with it. This can increase the risk of localised flooding and rapid runoff.

“If you imagine water hitting a smooth concrete surface, it runs rapidly away,” says Laura continues. “A heavily grazed or compacted paddock with short, stressed grass can behave in a similar way: there is little vegetation structure to interrupt the flow, while compacted soil has fewer of the larger pores and pathways through which water can move into the soil.”

Laura says hydraulic roughness – how much the land surface slows the movement of water – reduces rapid runoff.

“A woodland floor, hedgerow margin, heathland or tall grassland does the opposite,” she explains. “Vegetation, leaf litter and uneven ground slow overland flow, giving water more opportunity to infiltrate and reducing the speed at which it reaches drains, ditches and watercourses. This can reduce erosion and the amount of soil being transported downstream.”

How to stop stables flooding: Focus on your land

Experts suggest the following actions over the next six months:

Today

In the immediate short term, options are limited because soil structure can't be rebuilt overnight. But owners can take small, strategic steps.

Reduce pressure on vulnerable areas – particularly high-traffic zones and natural drainage pathways.
Clear and maintain existing drains and channels so water moves predictably rather than pooling around buildings.
Add temporary surface cover, such as woodchip in gateways, to reduce poaching and erosion.
Observe where water naturally flows – and avoid placing tracks, hay stations or shelters directly in those pathways where possible.
Protect areas that are already vulnerable rather than continuing to graze them heavily.

The next three months

“Primarily, the most important thing is to let your land recover,” says Laura. “Active recovery once growth resumes allows vegetation and root systems to rebuild, improves soil structure and can increase the roughness of the land surface, slowing runoff.”

Laura adds that looking to improve plant diversity in the near future will help cultivate more resilient pasture – a sustainability tip for horse owners.

“Many horse pastures that originated from intensive agricultural systems – particularly former dairy land – can be dominated by perennial ryegrass.”

While ryegrass, she says, is an excellent agricultural grass, ryegrass-dominated pasture isn't necessarily the most resilient pasture under increasingly hot and dry summers.

“Different grassland plants have different root architectures, rooting depths, growth patterns and tolerances to drought and wet conditions.

“Cocksfoot, for example, is a deeper-rooting perennial grass that can contribute a different rooting structure to a sward. Other grasses and herbs can bring different characteristics too, which can help build soil structure, support soil biology, improve resilience and make better use of rainfall when it does arrive.”

Poached fields seem like a distant memory now – and preventative actions now could make them more distant still. (Image credit: Alamy)

Over winter

Winter is when good soil structure really pays off.

“Fields with healthy roots, good soil structure and adequate organic matter are better able to absorb and store rainfall, and good management can reduce the amount of mud created by poaching,” says Laura.

Winter land management practices for resilience include:

Protecting the ground – rotate high-traffic areas, use sacrifice areas where appropriate, and avoid poaching wherever possible.
Protecting naturally wet areas and, where appropriate, allowing them to function as part of the landscape rather than automatically trying to drain every wet patch.
Maintaining tree belts and hedgerows – they can intercept and slow runoff and form part of wider natural flood-management measures.
Keeping organic matter on the surface – vegetation, litter and appropriate mulch protect soil from erosion and support soil biology.
Keeping living roots wherever possible – winter-active plants help maintain soil structure and biological activity.

How to flood-proof your stables

(Image credit: Alamy)

What are the main causes of stable flooding and how seriously should owners take it?

“A stable is most likely to flood if it sits lower than the ground around it, so ideally the stable block should be built slightly higher than the surrounding external ground,” says George Clark of Elmtree Construction.

“We also always put drains through every doorway, so any driving rain or surface water is dealt with before it even gets into the barn or stable.

“It's worth saying, too, that many of the materials used won’t be as watertight as a house, but that's simply the nature of building an agricultural or equestrian structure rather than a domestic one.”

Building flood-proof stables

If you're building stables from scratch, flood-proofing comes down to two things, according to George.

“Building the stable block higher than the surrounding ground, and putting drainage through every doorway to catch water before it reaches the barn.”

Flood-proofing existing stables

George tells us there are limits to what can be done.

“Rubber mats can help a little, as they raise the internal floor height slightly and create a small lip at the threshold,” he advises. “That said, if a stable is flooding, it’s usually a wider site issue, and upgrades at stable level aren't going to solve that on their own.”

What about stopping stables flooding if they are already prone to it?

“The most important thing is to properly identify what's actually causing the flooding, rather than just treating the symptoms. In almost every case, it comes down to a wider site drainage problem rather than something specific to the stable itself, so that's where I'd start looking.”

Deep flow guttering can help improve your current drainage if you’re in a location prone to heavy rain, and if you’re worried about flooding you might benefit from investing in the following short-term flood defences:

Sandbags (like these ones)
Hydrosacks (like this), which are eco-friendly and lighter to use than sandbags
Water extraction pumps (like this) to remove standing water fast
Modular flood barriers are reusable blocks that slot into each other and protect whole areas such as yards, as well as stables, buildings and gateways from water

For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

10 top tips to boost your planning chances

Horse & Hound — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:01:02 +0000

Plans — good surveys and scale drawings
Design and access statement — an outline of the business, plus the size, construction and how the development will be accessed
Designation — is the build in greenbelt land, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a national park?
Listed buildings — If your property is Listed building consent may be required in addition to planning permission
Pasture management — you may also need to submit plans covering this
Residential amenity — you have to address the impact on neighbours
Structural issues — are the buildings structurally sound?
Access — you may need a report on the impact on traffic
Biodiversity — will the build affect protected species?
Muck — this cannot be allowed to pollute water sourcesFor the full feature on understanding planning rules, see the current issue of Horse & Hound (18 August, 2011)

New rules may hamper equestrian planning permission

Horse & Hound — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:37:59 +0000

Securing planning permission for a new arena or stables could get harder under the government’s Localism Bill.

The bill, which is expected to be passed later this year, will fundamentally change the planning process and give communities a greater say in the development of their area.

And neighbourhood plans — where new developments can be voted on by locals — could be introduced from 2012.

“Giving more people a greater say will offer those people a chance to say no without considering the importance of an application,” said Country Land and Business Association planning specialist Fenella Collins.

She advised those in rural communities to get involved if a neighbourhood plan is proposed in their area.

But one H&H reader, who asked not to be named, said she would welcome the chance to get involved in equestrian development policy.

“We have nine manèges within one mile of us, and an array of stables, tatty containers, caravans and muck heaps — it is ruining the local area.

“We need a new approach that gives consideration to local people.”

Andy Woodward, of Equine Design planning consultants, said it was too early to tell whether the new rules would impede equestrian development.

“There might be an issue in areas with an existing high volume of equestrian developments and, frankly, there’s good reason then for the planning process to be tough,” said Mr Woodward.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (3 March, 2011)

Ask H&H: equestrian use of green-belt land

Horse & Hound — Wed, 05 May 2010 11:50:13 +0000

Ask H&H: Converting outbuildings into stables

Horse & Hound — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:16:34 +0000

Q: I would like to have an outbuilding on my property converted into a stable block for our family’s six horses. Do I need planning permission, and what do I need to consider with regard to the building itself?

YOU need to make a planning application, and can do so via your Local Planning Authority’s (LPA) website.

The good news is that the conversion of an appropriate existing building will generally be preferred by planning officers to “new build” on greenfield sites, especially in Green Belts or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, according to planning expert Judith Norris.

“The LPA may ask for proof that the building is capable of conversion in terms of its structural condition, and this can be dealt with by way of a surveyor’s or structural engineer’s report.

“The planning application will need to deal with soft and hard landscaping [including tracks into the site], issues of highway access and manure storage. Interceptors are increasingly deemed necessary to prevent run-off into watercourses. And more onerous design considerations have to be met if the buildings are listed or are close to listed buildings,” she adds.

With regard to the building, Barbara Fill of Monarch Equestrian says: “All stables require good light and ventilation, sufficient space for the size of horses to be housed, sound floors, if possible with only a slight fall to a drain, and a safe way in and out, but most of all they must be a robust, safe design.

“Often with existing buildings one or more of the above can be a challenge. If floors are poor or levels very uneven, a new floor may be required, although there are ways round this extra expense, so do seek expert advice before undertaking the work. Any new concrete laid must be non-slip and should take into account existing drains.

“Other considerations are the height of the roof and beams, especially if you are changing the floor. Low ceilings can create poor ventilation but, as long as there is sufficient headroom for the horses, a window or top door can sometimes be put in the back of the stable to improve the airflow. This will also provide additional natural light.

“Made-to-measure stables can help to make the best use of space and take into account levels on your floor, reducing the possibility of big gaps under stables. Sliding doors can also be useful if space is limited.”

To purchase six 12ft x12ft internal stables in hardwood, with half-grilled divisions and bottom swinging doors, would cost in the region of £3,900 plus VAT from Monarch (fitting is not included).

Information

Judith Norris Ltd Tel: 01580 201888 www.judithnorris.co.uk

Monarch Equestrian Tel: 01902 605566 www.monarch-equestrian.co.uk

This Q&A was first published in Horse & Hound (2 November, ’06)

Building the perfect tackroom

Horse & Hound — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 10:11:15 +0000

“Prevention is better than cure” is a medical tenet that applies surprisingly well when choosing a tackroom because the right one can save you money — and headaches — by deterring thieves and keeping insurers happy in one fell swoop.

Security and convenience are the two paramount criteria, and sometimes there can be a trade-off between the two.

Take location, for instance. For an insurer, “the ideal is to have all tack stored in the secure and safe environment of the main home”, says Tim Long of Scrutton Bland Independent Insurance Brokers. But for an owner, the closer a tackroom is to the stables, the more convenient it is.

And as Britt Blower of estate agent Denton Clark adds: “If there is a purpose-built stableblock it’s useful to have an integrated tackroom — that way everything is to hand. But if the stables are standalone in a paddock, far from the property, the only completely secure option would be to have a boot and tackroom in the house.”

Of course, a purpose-built tackroom within eyesight and earshot of a groom’s cottage is an excellent alternative.

The good news is that “if you find a high-quality equestrian property, you usually find there’s a first-rate secure tackroom,” says Britt Blower, adding, “but it can be difficult to find such properties, in which case I would advise creating a tackroom out of an existing stable or outbuilding, or constructing one.”

Whether building or converting, the safest option is to go for a sturdy outbuilding. Ideally, it should be of brick, stone or concrete, materials hard to break into for both thieves and pesky rodents.

For extra security, a tackroom should never lean against another wooden structure, which could give a thief an easy way in. If this is unavoidable, interiors should be lined with metal mesh or robust wooden panels.

Similarly, adds Tim Long, it is crucial to pick a good roof.

“Tiles or slates are preferred but many will have corrugated iron. Try to avoid felt and timber from a fire-risk perspective,” he says.

Tim urges homeowners to talk to insurers before they start working on a tackroom to avoid problems with future insurance claims or retrospective fitting of security items, which can be expensive.

Obviously, security alone is not enough to make a good tackroom, and any building must be big enough and dry enough to suit the purpose.

“The tackroom’s size needs to reflect the size of the yard,” says Britt Blower. “Saddles and bridles hang mainly on racks and hooks on the wall, so it’s not necessary for it to be huge. But if boots, bandages etc are kept in the tackroom it may be advantageous to have more floor space for storage containers — and enough space for sitting and cleaning tack if you can’t do it outside due to the weather.”

Zoe Napier of Fenn Wright recommends a minimum floor size of 12x6ft and stresses the importance of having good ventilation and low-temperature heating so as not to dry the tack out but equally to avoid mildew.

For the same reason, choose windows and doors with care: the right ones will help keep the tackroom dry and ventilated, as well as secure. Doors should be reinforced with a steel sheet and have a very strong lock.

Tim Long recommends installing a good alarm system connected to the owner’s house or mobile phone, or a system with monitoring. A professional establishment should install CCTV.

Once these basic requirements are met, other “extras” will turn a tackroom from plain good to ab-fab.

“Good shelving to store rugs and belongings, a machine man enough to take equine washing, an alarm, and hot and cold water for cleaning tack are all favourites,” says Zoe Napier. “A painted, dust-free floor and plastered wall is the cream.”

This property feature was first published in Horse & Hound

The perfect stable yard: build or buy?

Horse & Hound — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 11:30:43 +0000

To build or not to build: that is the question. If Hamlet had been a rider in search of new stables for his horses, he would have undoubtedly pored over this dilemma.

New purpose-built stables or a tailor-made barn conversion will suit your needs to a tee, but they call for a lot of work. Buying a property with a ready-made yard is hassle-free, but may entail a degree of compromise. So which is the right choice?

Your experience and level of involvement in the sport are the first criteria to evaluate. It makes sense for an established professional to invest some time and resources in making sure the yard fits their competition or business requirements, and works well for eventual clients, too.

Serious amateurs may also want to go down the tailor-made route — especially those with ambitious plans for a competitive future. However, building the perfect yard requires plenty of time.

“It takes a fair amount of research before you commit, unless you take a chance,” says Chris Yates of Bradleys Estate Agents. “Careful thought must be given when siting new, purpose-built stabling on how the yard is to be orientated and how it will work.”

For starters, you will need suitable land. Stables should ideally stand on well-draining soil within reach of the paddocks and should not face into prevailing winds.

And, as Diana Rowell of Churchill Country & Equestrian points out, “the yard must also be close enough to the house or staff accommodation so that if there’s a security problem or a horse goes down with colic in the night, it should be heard”.

If you are planning to convert a spare outbuilding into an American-style barn, you will need to arm yourself with patience and a good tape measure.

“Sometimes old buildings have low beams that don’t give enough headroom for horses. I’d say that 8ft is the minimum height you want because you have to think of ventilation,” says Barbara Fill of stable manufacturer Monarch Equestrian.

The ideal barn has windows that open to the outside and entrance doors wide enough to allow horses in easily.

“Anyone professionally producing animals will also need to be confident that any building they are converting provides an adequate size of stables and aisles,” says Yates.

Once you have found what looks like the right place, some extra sleuthing pays off.

“Try to get local knowledge,” says Fill. “You may find that within a certain area, some places tend to be very wet and muddy. A nearby farmer may be able to tell you.”

Prospective buyers should also sound out the local planning office early on because both new-builds and conversions require planning consent.

“I would never suggest that a buyer should consider a property with land without building permission or a yard already in place,” says Rowell. “Building permission for equestrian use can and is regularly turned down. I would ensure that not only is the yard allowed for, but also the outdoor school, horse box parking and outbuildings for feed and bedding storage.”

Assuming you do get planning permission, there are cost implications to consider because the price of setting up your own stables can easily escalate. Always get detailed quotations, budget for hidden costs and unforeseen problems — and avoid embarking on a building project unless you have good financial planning skills.

“If you want to set up your own stables, make sure you can achieve it financially and you have the time and legal permission to do it,” says Yates.

Otherwise, go for a ready-made yard. It may not be exactly what you want and there may be a premium on it, but you’ll know what you are getting for your money.

View our online database of equestrian property currently on the market >>

This feature was first published in Horse & Hound (20 October, ’05)

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Q&A: Foundations for stables

Horse & Hound — Wed, 02 Oct 2002 00:00:00 +0000

Q: Having recently been granted planning permission for some stables on my land, I don’t want to spend a fortune on good quality stables only to find that my base is inadequate. Can you give me some ideas on how I should prepare it?

Angela Barnes of Redmire Stables replies: You will have to get your base prepared yourself or bring in a recommended local ground works contractor, so that you are ready for the delivery and installation of your stables.

We recommend you have your base finished one week before delivery of your stables, to allow for the curing of concrete base and brickwork plinth.

First, lay six inches of compacted hardcore and then four inches of an equine concrete mix. You can buy this from any ready-mixed concrete supplier.

You will then need to lay a course of engineering bricks. Uponreceipt of the order most stable companies send a brickwork plan for your stables to be sited onto.

Be prepared for your base to cost just as much as your stables and don’t try to cut the costs on it.

If the base is wrong and uneven, the stables will not fit. It must be level with a slight concrete fall for drainage. Seek advice from a reputable building contractor or stable construction company.

The area where your stables are to be situated must have enough space for the installation team to manoeuvre. If you are planning to site your stables next to an existing building, you should allow at least two feet between the two.

There are many stable manufacturing companies.It is a good idea to request brochures from atleast three different companies. Ask if they have customers in your area that you can go and visit, so you can view their stables.

Angela Barnes is marketing director of Redmire Stables and Buildings Ltd in West Sussex.

For technical advice or details of the range, call Redmire on (01403) 785 508 or visit www.redmire.co.uk

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Q&A: Converting a barn into stables

Horse & Hound — Tue, 10 Sep 2002 00:00:00 +0000

Q. I have a barn on my 10-acre field and would like to convert it to internal stables so I can take on some liveries to help pay for my two horses.

Could you tell me if this will work out cheaper than building new stables and will I still need planning permission?

Angela Barnes of Redmire Stables and Buildings Ltd replies: Internal stabling systems are labour-saving and mean yard work is done under cover. They can be either purpose built or a conversion.

Changing existing buildings is usually cheaper than erecting new ones.

The unexpected rule that catches most people out is permission for change of use of a building.

If you wish to change the internal structure of your building and not the outside, you will still need planning permission.

This also applies to stabling or coach houses that have previously been converted to housing, if you should decide to return them to their original status.

Get in touch with your water board and local county council regarding drainage for the building.Councils differ from area to area.

Find out how often they deal with equine planning applications and if they comprehend horses’ needs.

With converted old buildings, ceilings are usually quite high, which helps with larger volumes of air and the horse’s general surroundings.

It is important to have a sufficient airflow serving the stables themselves, as badly designed indoor buildings can become unhealthy during the summer and dank and oppressive in the winter.

Internal stabling does have its disadvantages.

Infections spread rapidly in shared airspace, so you’ll need alternative arrangements for isolating horses if necessary.

Also, fire is harder to contend with when your horses are all under one roof.

Some owners drive tractors through largeinternal stabling as a labour-saving method.

The fumes from the exhaust can be highly toxic so it’s far better to use a large hand pulled trailer. These are more environmentally friendly and safer.

Angela Barnes is marketing director of Redmire Stables and Buildings Ltd in West Sussex.

For technical advice or details of the range, call Redmire on (01403) 785 508 or visit: www.redmire.co.uk

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