A proposed policy review for stables and horse riding facilities has been issued by the planning authority.

It said in a statement the purpose of the review was to tighten up the policy against any possible abuse in the change of use of horse stables and related facilities into alternative undesirable land uses.

The review also sought to further mitigate the adverse visual impact that these structures might create within their environment.

The revised policy proposes that each stable is separated by a two-metre gap from the neighbouring stable. 

Basements beneath horse stables and related facilities were being removed from the policy. The authority noted that while this development could lead to major disruptions in the rural area, it far exceeded storage requirements and resulted in the possibility of inappropriate change of use from that intended.

The policy is also proposing to eliminate the provision which facilitates the conversion of existing buildings that have architectural, historical or vernacular significance in rural areas into horse stables or horse riding facilities.

This recommendation was being made in view of the fact that although the reuse of such prestigious buildings was fully supported, these should not be promoted for use as horse stables or horse riding but should be used for much more appreciative land uses such as visitor attractions and/or agro-tourism accommodation.

The full proposed review document can be viewed here.

Submissions on the proposed policy review should sent to: rural.policy@mepa.org.mt up to March 14.