The importance of horse-friendly vehicle barriers

Used specifically on bridleways, horse-friendly vehicle barriers provide safe and uncomplicated equestrian access without restricting entry from lawful motor vehicular access.

Without careful consideration, gates and barriers can be hazardous not only to horses and riders, but to pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users. Choose the wrong barrier, and you may risk a horse unseating its rider if it chooses to jump, or that it injures itself whilst approaching, crossing or leaving the restricted area.

The Belton Horse Friendly Vehicle Barrier gate is designed to prevent unauthorised vehicle access on Public Rights of Way routes such as bridleways. Its central step-over section is timber-clad each side to reduce any distracting noise if clipped by horses' hooves. This could be painted to give crossing horses a better visual steer on step position.

The crossing section width of the Belton Barrier is 1.5 metres wide at an installed height of 0.25 metres. This is low enough to allow step-over access by horses and at a height that discourages any jumping. Robust and secured to prevent unlawful vehicle access, the Belton Barrier is interchangeable to enable right or left-hand hanging with one-way opening.

When choosing a horse-friendly vehicle barrier, ensure there is sufficient space on the approach and beyond, keeping it clear of overhanging branches or hazards in case a horse jumps. It is important to also consider at least a 5 metre distance from any roads so that the risk of distraction from traffic noise is minimised.

The surrounding ground should be firm, well-drained and level on its approach, beneath the barrier and beyond. This allows a firm footing as the horse steps into, over and out of the barrier area.

For full guidance on the use and selection of horse-friendly barriers, please refer to the British Horse Society's Factsheet on Vehicle Barriers.

To find out more and to enquire about the Belton Horse Friendly Vehicle barrier and other barrier options, visit the our Vehicle Barrier section. For bridges, designed with equestrian access in mind, find out more about our Bridleway Bridges. Used specifically on bridleways, horse-friendly vehicle barriers provide safe and uncomplicated equestrian access without restricting entry from lawful motor vehicular access.