Report - Section 6.10

6.10   Private sector responses to access provision

In addition to these initiatives which have been driven by public policy, there has also been a response from the private and voluntary sectors.

6.10.1 Toll rides
Originally set up in the South East as South East Toll Rides, Toll Rides (Off-Road) Trust is a non-commercial registered charity, organised by riders - Local Agents - all over the region. TROT is dedicated to providing ‘off-road’ riding, by connecting public bridleways, accessing routes to avoid particularly dangerous stretches of road or providing rides in areas where there is no public access for horses.

Rides are designed primarily to provide links between public rights of way, but many routes are expanded to make circuits of their own. There are about 50 networks, and nearly 2000 riders. Riders pay a Licence toll to the scheme, depending on their access to TROT routes, of between £1.05 to £2.30 a week for an adult. They receive a coloured and numbered hatband which must be worn as proof of payment to landowners. The scheme is established in such a way that no legal right of way or use is established. The subscription helps to pay farmers an annual fee for routes, based on length and membership.

TROT has also taken on the permit administration for Forest Enterprise, giving access to permitted riding in 20 forests in the South East.

Rides are established by mutual arrangement with landowners. On average perhaps three landholders would be involved in each network. Financing for work needed on rides (gates, bridges etc.) is raised locally by sponsorship and fund raising: this gives a good indication of local support and demand for the route.

TROT is expanding its role to go UK-wide, where demand and support can be established, and appropriate infrastructure exists. Three networks have opened in Worcestershire.

6.10.2 On farm riding opportunities
A number of landholders have developed commercial riding opportunities, such as UK Chaser courses, entirely on their own holding. These can introduce more challenging riding, including jumps. UK Chasers offer 140 miles of maintained hacking tracks and 1000 cross country jumps.

6.10.3 Le TREC
Le Trec (Technique de Randonee Equestre de Competition) is a competitive discipline which has its roots in France. The competition is designed to test an individual’s ability to deal with anything they may encounter as an equestrian tourist whilst riding alone in the countryside. The sport is designed to appeal directly to those for whom riding is an enjoyable and relaxing recreation.

A calendar of about 90 events now takes place each year in Britain, although there are very few in the South East of England.

6.10.4 Ride UK
The British Horse Society launched plans for a National Bridleroute Network in May 2000. The aim of the project is to create a comprehensive network of community circuits, and strategic linear routes for horse riders across the United Kingdom. Starting with existing national routes (such as The Ridgeway and the Pennine Bridleway), regional routes and promoted circular rides, the network will build up over time into a comprehensive network of paths available to all users.

At present, most riders have little alternative but to ride on roads. The vision of the National Bridleroute Network has the concept of Community Circuits so that all riders are only a short distance away from a five to fifteen miles route. Riders exercise regularly, so for many of them, the most important piece of the National Bridleroute Network is closest to them. The focus of the National Network will ensure local needs are covered. It will also enable people to ride further afield.

Community Circuits are routes that serve riders, cyclists and walkers and could come under the headings of 'Sustainable Tourism/Transport' and may be viewed with favour by funding agencies eg INTERREG and Leaderplus. Where these can link to provide longer distance routes that attract visitors from further afield, then the gain is multiplied and as more businesses are involved eg pubs, village shops, B&B, local food outlets and all those engaged in the wider equestrian industry.

6.10.5 Long distance routes/endurance rides
Endurance riding is growing in popularity and depends on setting up appropriate routes for events of graduated levels from 20-100 miles.