Horse fair deal will '˜help ensure safety'

A controversial horse fair is set to return to the Fylde coast from tomorrow '“ but authorities insist a deal has been struck with organisers to prevent traffic chaos.
Travellers at last years Horse FairTravellers at last years Horse Fair
Travellers at last years Horse Fair

The event is set to be held on land in Garstang Road West, between Poulton and Blackpool from Thursday.

Hundreds are expected to attend the fair which runs from August 18 to August 22.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Local authority officials say they have no way of stopping the event from going ahead.

But they say they have had reassurances that horses will be kept off the main road next to the site.

A Wyre Council spokesman said: “Last year an impromptu horse fair event took place without the involvement of Wyre Council or police.

“In an attempt to avoid any repeat we have engaged with the organisers and this has resulted in the production of a satisfactory event plan.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“This will ensure the safety of those attending the event while minimising disruption to the local community.”

Those organising the event do not need planning permission or a license to use the land for the fair. But they have promised to stick to a strict set of rules to minimise disruption to those living nearby.

A Wyre Council spokesman said: “The event is being held on private land and does not need planning permission nor do the activities require any form of a license.

“We have requested and been assured that there will not be a horse drive leaving the site which previously caused a number of traffic management problems. During their stay the campers are asked to follow a code of conduct which sets out basic standards.”

Summer of traveller visits to Fylde coast

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The horse show at Poulton comes after a summer of traveller activity on the Fylde coast.

Last week The Gazette reported how 40 caravans had moved onto the car park at Freeport in Fleetwood.

The group, understood to be attending a wedding, were moved on within 24 hours, relocating to land near the Tee Time driving range in Norbreck.

Travellers have also been moved on from playing fields off Highfield Road in South Shore and Blackpool Road North, St Annes in recent weeks.

Related articles:

Hide Ad
Hide Ad