Plans to build houses on the site of Stag Lodge Stables in Richmond Park have been thwarted.
Earlier this month, stable owner Richard Turner told Horse & Hound he had no plans to close the yard despite submitting a planning application for the erection of three four-bedroom terraced town houses. The application also sought permission for the provision of four off-street parking spaces on the site of the stables that were founded in 1790.
But Kingston Borough Council has turned down the plans, concluding that the land performs an important “recreational, historical and visual function” at Richmond Park in south-west London. The council also ruled that a new development would adversely impact flora and fauna in the adjacent park.
Mr Turner has been advised by the council to inform the Royal Parks before any further planning applications are submitted.
Richard Turner bought Stag Lodge nine years ago. It currently stables around 40 horses and ponies, is approved by the British Horse Society (BHS) and is a thriving Pony Club centre.
When H&H visited Stag Lodge earlier this month, Richard Turner said he “fully expected” the application to go to appeal.
“I don’t expect to get consent for one minute,” he said, claiming: “I am just trying to increase the value of my property.”
H&H was unable to reach Mr Turner today to comment on whether he plans to appeal.
