Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet has approved Wales’s first Equestrian Access Strategy, setting out a long-term aspiration to improve equestrian access across the county.

This strategy reflects the Council’s ambition to support the equestrian community, enhance rural connectivity and promote inclusive access to the countryside.

The Strategy provides a framework for delivery over the next ten years, with Carmarthenshire aiming to develop a more accessible, better-connected network for equestrian use. It outlines a phased approach, beginning with the establishment of an Equine User Group and a volunteer Equine Maintenance Workforce. These early actions will help shape priorities and strengthen the delivery of future improvements.

Developed through extensive engagement with equestrian businesses, clubs, individuals, and elected representatives, the Strategy responds to growing interest in equestrianism and recognises its economic, social, and wellbeing value.

Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability, said:“This Strategy sets out a clear direction for how we will work with the equestrian community to improve access in a realistic and sustainable way.

“It recognises the importance of horses in Carmarthenshire’s rural identity and the wider benefits equestrianism brings to our communities.”