The British Horse Society (BHS) is urging equestrians to take action to secure further off-road routes for riders.
Tomorrow (26 January) the government will debating the Environment Bill, giving MPs the chance to vote for Amendments 21 and 28, which could enhance our hacking experience.
The amendments would require the government to set legally-binding, long-term targets to increase public access to, and enjoyment of the natural environment, and take steps to improve people’s enjoyment of nature in its Environmental Improvement Plans.
The BHS is urging riders to contact their local MP to ask them to speak out in favour of these amendments.
“Whether it’s on a bridleway, byway or elsewhere, research shows that exercising in green space makes us healthier and happier,” said a BHS spokesman. “Many of us have found comfort in exercising in open green spaces and nature since COVID-19 restrictions were introduced.
“The Environment Bill returns to the House of Commons for its remaining stages and we believe now is the time to be ambitious. We must put people and nature first and create places that make us happier, healthier and more connected. Amending the Environment Bill is a perfect opportunity to do that.
“Passing these vital amendments to the Bill would go a long way to meeting our aspiration for more equestrians to have safe off road access and enjoy nature.”
The charity has created a simple template riders can amend as they deem fit before sending to their MP.
Download the template letter here and Follow this link to find contact details for your MP.
