BHS wins Telscombe Tye common access battle

A planning inspector has rejected proposals to erect electric fencing across Telscombe Tye common — an East Sussex beauty spot and popular place for riding — following a four-day inquiry. Objections were heard from the British Horse Society (BHS) and others.

Previously, electric fencing obstructing a bridleway across the common was removed after persistent requests from Jackie Rowland, BHS County Access and Bridleway Officer.

Landowner Telscombe Town Council then applied for permission to re-erect and add to the fencing. But the inspector said the fences and gate would provide a physical barrier to access that would impact most upon horse riders and wheelchair users.

This news release was first published in Horse & Hound (8 March, ’07)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now