Toy horses may be all that general manager Sue Chandler and instructor Sarah Schroder will be able to use at Oakwood Riding School if Thompsons Road is extended through the Clyde North property. 49875 Picture: Kim Cartmell
By Bridget Brady
VICTORIA’S oldest riding school faces an uncertain future with the threat of a major road extending through the property.
Not-for profit Oakwood Riding School in Clyde North would be rendered non-viable if Thompsons Road is extended through the 100-acre property, general manager Sue Chandler said.
Earlier this year VicRoads said the exact alignment of the extension of Thompsons Road was not confirmed, but Ms Chandler said she was aware that one option was to cut off about 75 per cent of their property.
Ms Chandler said staff believed they had set up a school in Clyde North where they could remain forever. They also had plans to set up a cross country course at the school.
“We thought we were going to be here for another 100 years,” she said.
“We’re hoping that VicRoads take into consideration our concerns. “We are very community minded, we keep the kids off the streets and they learn a sense of responsibility, looking after animals.
“It’s completely self-funded. So surely we’re doing the local community a favour at no cost to anybody except us so that should be looked upon favourably as well.”
VicRoads did not respond to the News before it went to print.
