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We have objected to a private equestrian-development in the lovely Skirmett valley, in the heart of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Buckinghamshire.
The society has sent an objection to Wycombe District Council. The plan is to demolish the buildings at Stud Farm (now pointlessly renamed Valentine Farm) and replace them with an equestrian complex consisting of a riding area, stables, tack room, wash rooms, office, store rooms, feed and rug room and horse walker.
There is a further application to replace the existing dwelling with a three-bedroomed detached dwelling and to lift the agricultural-occupancy condition. The society and the Ramblers have objected to this too because the building itself would be ugly and it could lead to further intensification of the site.
The proposed development is huge, and totally inappropriate in this sensitive and outstandingly beautiful landscape. It would cover more than twice the area of the existing barns and would dominate this intimate, beautiful valley. With security lighting it would be an eyesore at night as well as in the daytime.
It would be extremely visible from the many public paths which thread their way across and around the valley, spoiling the enjoyment of walkers, riders and cyclists who visit the Chilterns for its natural beauty and its peace and tranquillity.
Not surprisingly the proposals conflict with many policies in the Wycombe Local Plan. We fervently hope the planners will reject it.