A NEW equestrian centre is being proposed for the Leweston School near Sherborne.

The private school is hoping to be allowed to build the centre with outdoor arenas and a new main building to replace existing L-shaped stables, which will be demolished.

Application papers for planning consent have been submitted to Dorset Council with the school saying the new facilities will allow it to take part in competitions and event with occasional local use also encouraged.

Part of an existing car park and area of woodland is proposed to be converted into a 75mx30m outdoor arena, with a field to the north east of the site providing a smaller 50x30m second arena, paddock and turn out spaces.

Said the school application: “The existing stable buildings are in poor condition, and will be removed, with the existing materials salvaged and re-used within the proposals. These building footprints, and the courtyard and surrounding spaces, will be utilised for the new equestrian building.

“This new stable block will provide the school with stabling for up to 22 horses, with associated facilites such as wash bays, tack and feed rooms… The stable elements of the building have been designed with a central open courtyard to maximise circulation and natural ventilation, with an extended roof canopy to all sides.”