Concerns have been raised at a recent Welsh government meeting over significant variations in riding school licensing fees across Welsh local authorities, with industry figures warning that inconsistent charges could threaten the future sustainability of riding schools.
Recent figures provided by a Welsh county council have highlighted not only wide cost differences between neighbouring authorities, but also a lack of understanding around the economics and income pressures facing the riding school sector.
Current licensing fees vary considerably. Carmarthenshire, for example, charges £408 for up to 10 horses, including the veterinary inspection, while Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) charges £300 or more, with veterinary costs often added separately. Ceredigion charges £370 initially for centres with six to 15 horses and £354 for renewal, while Bridgend charges £352 for all centres, including the veterinary inspection. In many cases, these headline figures are further increased by additional inspection costs and the expense of preparing for inspections.
This variation means that a riding school operating in one local authority area could end up paying significantly more than a centre just a few miles away across a county border, despite targeting the same potential clients. As a result, some centres may be forced to charge higher lesson prices simply to cover licensing costs, placing them at a competitive disadvantage.
Following a meeting to discuss licensing arrangements, a Pembrokeshire County Council member has formally requested that the local licence fee structure be reviewed. The councillor called for future decisions to be based on informed understanding rather than assumptions, stating the importance of “speaking with knowledge, rather than making guesstimates on the subject before we set these fees”.
Cabinet member Jacob Williams confirmed that the issue will be reconsidered in January, offering hope that a review may lead to a fairer and more transparent approach.
The issue comes at a critical time for the sector. Previous British Horse Society research shows that more than 300 riding schools have closed since 2018. With rising costs across all areas of operation, industry representatives argue that licensing must be applied fairly, affordably, and consistently, with one clear standard for all, to ensure riding schools can remain viable while continuing to meet welfare and safety requirements.