“It Would Be a Tragedy”: Local Community Left Divided Over 14x Gold Medalist Equestrian’s New Venture

Paralympic games form a crucial part of the sports community as they offer an equal opportunity for specially-abled persons to show their talent. A renowned paralympic personality who has marked his name in the Equestrian arena is Sir Lee Pearson. However, the Equestrian legend’s recent announcement has raised many eyebrows. Mr. Pearson is devising a plan that would make changes to his Bagnall home. He is planning to take Equestrian classes at his North Staffordshire stables.

Earlier in 2018, Sir Lee maintained that the place would be used only for the family’s needs. But the Equestrian legend is now focussing on the process of lifting any restrictions that will hinder the stable’s usage for commercial purposes.

A section of neighbors opposing the Equestrian champion’s plan

The proposal from Pearson left his neighbors with mixed reactions. While some see it in a positive light, others have outrightly condemned the proposal. “It would be a tragedy to the local area to allow this manège to be used by the general public,” says Muriel Buckle according to a report by StokeonTrentLive.

He is afraid that the conversion of stables for commercial training purposes would lead to an increase in traffic, pollution, litter, and noise in Bagnall. “Please do not allow this planning condition be granted at any cost!” he adds. 

The residents of the neighboring properties have submitted a joint letter saying, “Mr. Pearson currently has his property up for sale for £1.2 million, which may perhaps indicate that the removal of Condition 4 is purely speculative.” They expressed their opinion, saying, “Could Mr. Pearson not use nearby facilities for his teaching, such as Lodge Farm 2 miles or Beaver Hall 6 miles, until he sells his property and leave the area?”

Read More: HISTORIC! Sir Lee Pearson Wins Eighth Equestrian Championship At The Tokyo Paralympics 2020

A certain section rallied in support of Sir Lee Pearson’s plan

On the other hand, a few members of the community feel that the plan would bring more revenue and recognition to the area. Joann Oldfield says that he totally supports the decision of Mr. Pearson, as the training center would be a valuable asset to the community. 

He is of the opinion that local families and children could get professional coaching on the premises instead of traveling far for classes. The Planning Committee situated at the Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is yet to decide on the matter, which is due on 20th April 2023. 

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Should Mr. Pearson be allowed to start Equestrian training sessions at his Bagnall home? What are your thoughts on this?