The Proposal
The scheme delivers a new car park offering 33 standard bays, 3 accessible bays, and 2 dedicated horsebox bays to encourage equestrian use of the surrounding bridleways. The project also included implementing an uncontrolled crossing of Knowle Road to link the car park with the Welborne Mile bridleway, ensuring safe and convenient access for walkers, riders, and visitors.
Our Approach
A key priority was balancing functional design with the client’s aspiration for an “informal” appearance in keeping with the natural setting. We carefully designed the car park geometry, including swept path tracking for private vehicles and larger horseboxes, engaging directly with the British Horse Society (BHS) to ensure the design met equestrian user needs.
Our team also delivered the drainage strategy, carrying out detailed hydraulic modelling to manage surface water effectively and sustainably. To maintain a low-impact aesthetic, we specified a geosynthetic grid infilled with gravel rather than conventional hard surfacing, ensuring the car park blends sympathetically into the surrounding forest landscape.
The Outcome
Through close consultation and robust design, we supported Buckland Development in securing all necessary approvals, including Reserved Matters and S278. We then completed a construction pack and the car park has now been successfully built. The scheme provides essential parking and safer connections to the wider green network, encouraging active travel and supporting Dashwood SANGS as a valued community asset.