THE British Horse Society (BHS) is urgently calling for equestrians in Northern Ireland to help open up the country’s historic network of trails for the public to access by contacting their local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), ahead of the deadline next week.

The opportunity comes as part of the Greenway Strategy, which aims to enable public access to the disused railway network. “It would provide much-needed, safe, off-road routes for horse riders, as well as walkers and cyclists, to enjoy,” stated the BHS, who are encouraging horse riders in Northern Ireland to ask their MLA to speak out and vote for any access created out of the Greenways Strategy to provide for multiple users across the country. With limited access to off-road riding routes in Northern Ireland, equestrians are forced to use the roads to reach safe hacking routes, putting themselves and their horses at risk.

“The BHS is committed to enhancing and maintaining the UK’s equestrian access network and is encouraging people to help ensure horse riding is included as part of the Greenways Strategy. Time is running out to have your say.”

The application deadline for funding in support of Greenway projects are to be submitted before next Friday, December 3rd, 2021 by councils.

For more information visit: https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-charity/press-centre/news/2021/november/ni-greenways-strategy. To find your local MLA to contact, visit: http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/your-mlas/locate-your-mla2/.