Views heard on controversial community hub plan

About 100 people attended the public consultation held by Nene Park Trust

A public consultation held over plans for a new community hub at a former horse-riding centre was "positive", the applicant said.

Earlier this year, Nene Park Trust submitted plans to convert Lynch Farm in Orton Waterville, Peterborough, into a community space, including an enclosed field for dog training, residential camping, and space for food fairs and family events.

But the application was later withdrawn due to criticism from residents and ward councillors.

Last week, about 100 people attended a community consultation held by the trust to address concerns. The trust said the response was "constructive" and new plans would be submitted in the next few months.

Currently, the site comprises of a Grade II-listed farmhouse and outbuildings, which were part of the Lynch Farm Riding School until it closed in 2022.

Previously the application received about 30 objections including from Orton Waterville Parish Council, which raised concerns over the possible effects on a listed building and wildlife.

Peterborough Civic Society said it was also concerned events at the site could "generate intrusive noise" and parking issues.

Some people objecting to the plans were, however, supportive of education provision at the site.

Plans were submitted to convert the former riding school at Lynch Farm into a community hub

Following the latest consultation, Nene Park Trust said a revised interim application was being worked on and would be submitted to Peterborough City Council.

It will include provisions for the enclosed dog field to be used by a maximum of four dogs at any time.

It will also have facility for small groups such as scouts to have residential camping, alongside education sessions that are already being held by the trust.

Independent councillor for Orton Waterville, Kirsty Knight, said residents had been "emotional" about losing the riding school.

"The meeting on Thursday discussed the trust's interim plans. There were a lot of concerns first, but the public consultation was well attended and people's questions were answered," she added.