SEVERE flooding around a “forgotten” trotting track is “putting horses at risk” as they could be forced to ride along a popular golf course, a councillor has warned.
Stephen Aylen, non-aligned councillor for Belfairs, has called for action by the council to tackle problems at Belfairs Park - particularly a trotting track which he says is a “safety hazard” due to flooding.
Mr Aylen claims he has been in contact with the council but has not had his concerns responded to in a month, and says if urgent action is not taken people will be forced to ride on Belfairs Golf Course and the trotting track could be closed.
Lydia Hyde, Labour councillor responsible for environment and waste, has said she met with Mr Aylen in the summer and insists action is being taken, with several improvements already made.
Other issues include a wooden knee rail which needs repairs, the relocation of a bench in the middle of the trotting track, the installation of a pipe under the track to prevent “dangerous” flooding, refurbishment of the padel tennis courts and the resurfacing of the car park.
Mr Aylen said: “To allow the trotting track to be used by all riders, from Belfairs stables to riders from Daws Heath, it needs a length of pipe put in so people can go around the flooded area, it was agreed this was top priority.
“We have been waiting to have it done but it will soon be wet and rainy, and the track will turn into quagmire and people will be forced to ride on the golf course or they will have to close the trotting track. Horses will be put at risk.”
Ms Hyde outlined the work taken so far around the park.
She said: “The knee rail materials are on order for mid-November delivery, and the bench on the trotting track has been relocated. We’ve addressed fire exit visibility and are assessing wayfinding and car park resurfacing within our existing budget.
“Regarding the drainage concern, initial work near the nature reserve entrance has shown positive results, but we’re happy to review this on-site with councillor Aylen to reassure him of the measures taken.”
Ms Hyde added: “As for the larger projects, including the tennis courts, these require further council approval and budget consideration. Park toilets are part of a citywide review for optimal improvements through our transformation programme.”
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