Equestrian Crossings

Morag Gibson

Accidents involving ridden horses can be very serious for all concerned, and the reduction of the potential hazard by the provision of a road crossing facility should be considered.  However, it should not be assumed that the provision of a crossing alone would necessarily lead to a reduction in road accidents—much also depends on the design of facilities and the intrinsic safety of the site.

According to information received in a Traffic Advisory Leaflet from the Department of Transport there are several options open to installers once a decision has been made to install an equestrian crossing.  According to the Department of Transport “an equestrian crossing can be for horses and riders alone, or combined with cycle and/or pedestrian facilities”.  This information brings me to the question: if they are readily available to use on their own, and in conjunction with others, why are not more being installed when new routes are planned or upgraded?  I think that it is probably because you, as our members, are not aware that this can be done and therefore we, as your local representatives, are unable to help you. 

Hampshire is a large county and we cannot be aware of all the local upgrading and problems you are having.  So please if there is an area of concern in your locality, let us know.  Further information on equestrian crossings and Traffic Advisory Leaflets are available from the Department of Transport’s website www.dft.gov.uk/local transport/traffic advisory leaflets.  For additional information you can also e-mail the Traffic Management Division at www.traffic.signals@dft.gsi.gov.uk or ring 0207 944 2478.

We will never stop accidents altogether, but if we all try to pull in the same direction we could help to make our hacking times safer, and with the provision of a safe crossing area between off road routes, our time spent on the road could be reduced.  For any further help or information, please ring me and leave a message (07801-736217). Morag Gibson

(Information on equestrian crossings taken from Traffic Advisory Leaflet 3/03 published by the Traffic Advisory Unit)