Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Bridleways

Thursday 4 March 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Laurence Robertson asked about the safety of horse riders due to increased traffic on village roads.
  • The Minister responded by expressing personal experience and understanding of the need to improve bridleway safety.
  • The Government aims to improve safety and access for horse riders through initiatives outlined in their 25-year environment plan.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Laurence Robertson Con
Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

More building in villages has led to increased traffic, resulting in danger for horse riders. Last year saw 46 horses killed and 130 riders injured.

Question

The Minister will be aware that as more and more building takes place in villages, more traffic is put on the road, which presents a danger to horse riders. Just last year alone, 46 horses were killed and 130 riders were injured. One way in which more access could be provided is by allowing horse riders to use footpaths, for example, and there are many other ideas. Will she work with me and others who are concerned about this issue to try to improve access to bridleways for horse riders?

Answer from Victoria Prentis

I would be delighted to do that. I have first-hand experience of negotiating bridleways over motorway bridges and level crossings with two small daughters on their ponies, and I very much appreciate that one of the benefits of improving the bridleway network will be increased safety. The schemes we are introducing will incentivise farmers to enhance public access across the piece.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No concrete actions or timeline for improving access to bridleways was provided, only an offer to work together and reference to existing schemes.

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Q2 Laurence Robertson Con
Agriculture & Rural Affairs Environment
Context

The question follows an initial query regarding the number of bridleways to improve safety and access for horse riders.

Question

If he will increase the number of bridleways to improve the safety of horse riders; and if he will make a statement.

Answer from Victoria Prentis

The Government share my hon. Friend's ambition to improve safety and access for horse riders. Our 25-year environment plan and landscapes review explain how we will help to connect people with nature. Our new environmental land management schemes will include payments to ensure that those goods are delivered.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No commitment to increase the number of bridleways or specific timeline was given, only a reference to existing plans and reviews.

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