A historic horse training yard which had its trainer evicted in July should be kept in the racing industry, according to councillors.
Options for Downs House, which was once home to Eclipse - a thoroughbred from whom 95 per cent of today’s bloodstock is descended, were discussed by Epsom and Ewell Council’s strategy and resources committee on Tuesday evening (September 25).
Councillors "authorised officers to investigate the most suitable basis for a viable re-occupation of the property, with a preference that it remains in the use of the racing industry" and approved £10,000 to be used to appoint external professional advisors.
The meeting was attended by Caroline Baldock, chairwoman of the Epsom Equestrian Conservation Group.
Addressing councillors, she said: "Downs House is a very unique site for the training of horses as they don’t have to cross any roads on the Downs."
Councillor Neil Dallen replied: "There are presently no plans to use it for any other purpose."
Article from Hardeep Matharu at Surreycomet
