The Pre-Stable Build Process

If you are planning to build out a new stable block, there are a number of questions you must address before beginning the project. A large scale project like stable design is not as simple as purchasing the materials and starting to build, there are several considerations to take into account. For people building stable blocks for the first time, and those who are revamping existing buildings, we’ve listed the main issues below:

Planning Authorities

What is of critical importance before you spend any major time and money on your new project, is whether you have, or will be granted planning permission on your land. This is very important if you are building stabling for the first time. Reasons planning permission might be refused include overshadowing of neighbours land, loss of privacy, access restrictions and spoiling of natural area. Use common sense to judge the validity of your application and try to imagine what objections there might be.

If you are planning to build new stables on land that has already been granted planning permission in the past, you need to make sure that your new design isn’t substantially different and doesn’t encroach beyond the original designated boundaries. Don’t assume that you can make significant extensions without telling the relevant authorities before hand.

If you are applying for the first time, you should know that most planning applications are decided within eight weeks, unless they are unusually large or complex – in which case the time limit is extended to 13 weeks. Use these time scales to factor in the following purchase of raw materials or products needed for your project.

Local conditions

The finished design of your stable block will heavily depend on the conditions of your chosen site. This includes elements such as the lie of the land, available shelter, drainage and proximity to other buildings.

If the area you plan to build on is sloped, you will want to consider some excavation work before laying down some permanent foundations. The ground you build on needs to be a flat as possible for health and safety and well and practical reasons. You’ll also want to make sure there aren’t any features on the land that may inhibit your design like large trees or hedgerow that can’t be moved. Also take into account what other buildings are situated close by that can double up as tack or feed storage. This affects whether certain features of the stable block are strictly necessary, as you can take advantage of existing resources.

Cost

Following on from that point is the cost of the build. Obviously the more units and features you include in your stable design, the more expensive the project is going to be. It’s a good idea to work out your budget before beginning the process as extra cost can appear quite easily.

Certain value adding fixtures like hay stores and tack rooms can be added quite easily, but their cost needs to be accounted for. Also, there is the option of fixture upgrades for your design, like roof shingles or three-piece stable doors. You need to decide whether you want a simple stable design or one with all the bells and whistles that blends in with your surroundings.

With good planning and preparation, you can build the perfect stable block. For advice on building, or extending an existing stable designs, contact Colt Stables now via our contact page.