The National Trust has ignited a fierce debate after ordering a farmer to remove his horses from ancient coastal land, claiming public safety concerns despite local opposition and evidence the animals help prevent erosion.
Safety Concerns Clash with Local Tradition
Conservation charity the National Trust has taken the controversial decision to evict farmer John Watkins and his horses from coastal pathways they've maintained for generations. The organisation cites potential risks to public safety as their primary motivation for the removal.
However, local residents and regular visitors to the picturesque coastal area are fighting back, arguing that the horses have become an integral part of the landscape and actually help stabilise the vulnerable coastline.
'They're Part of the Landscape' - Locals Rally Behind Farmer
Regular walkers and countryside enthusiasts have expressed outrage at the decision, with many describing the horses as 'gentle giants' who pose no threat to responsible visitors.
'We've walked these paths for years alongside these beautiful animals,' said one local resident. 'They're part of what makes this coastline special. The National Trust is removing the very character that makes people want to visit.'
Environmental Benefits Versus Perceived Risks
Critics of the National Trust's decision point to the environmental advantages of having horses on the land. Their grazing patterns naturally manage vegetation that, if left unchecked, could contribute to soil instability and erosion.
Meanwhile, the National Trust maintains that their duty of care requires them to minimise any potential risks to the millions of visitors who explore their properties annually.
The dispute highlights the ongoing challenge conservation bodies face in balancing public access with safety management across Britain's cherished countryside.
