A planning application for a new equestrian arena is set to be discussed this afternoon (October 28).

The application, on Nipsells Chase in Mayland, which includes a new equestrian arena, is recommended for approval by planning officers at Maldon District Council.

The land already has permission to be used for equestrian use.

An application has also already been approved for the erection of a single storey building to be used to stable six horses and to house agricultural machinery, hay and straw.

It is stated that the arena, which will be made of a sand mix and measure 60 metres by 30 metres, will be used to ride horses in the wet winter months to reduce the reliance of riding on roads.

One of the horses is a Clydesdale, which is used for driving, so the application proposes the arena be a large size.

The application will discussed at a meeting of the South Eastern Planning Committee this afternoon.