INTERNATIONAL GRAND PRIX RIDER JOANNA THURMAN-BAKER ON A NEW GP ARENAS 20m x 40m ARENA AT TURVILLE VALLEY STUD, HENLEY-ON-THAMES
Riding Arena Construction
When considering the ideal location for a riding arena you should take into account the average size is 20 metres by 40 metres although they can be built much larger if required. Higher level dressage tests, for example, require an arena 20 metres by 60 metres, so if you are planning to get to this grade it is worth accommodating this extra length. You should also plan for an extra 5 metres for horses to warm up around the edge if you are going to hold competitions. Level land provides the best location for an arena as starting off with as level a piece of land as possible helps reduce the costs of the ground works.
Make the most of the sun as its warmth will help the arena to defrost in the winter months and a line of trees can make a useful windbreak or natural barrier if the arena is to be sited close to grazing land where turned out animals may be a distraction to a horse you are trying to school.
Good access to the arena particularly in winter will make using the school far more pleasurable – having to walk through deep mud can make access impossible.
ARENA DRAINAGE
Drainage is vital to the success of building an arena. You can build an arena just about anywhere as long as you make sure that you put in the necessary drainage. Many arenas suffer from poor drainage and the water lying on the surface can turn into sheets of ice in very cold weather. The objective is to make sure that whatever water lands on the surface flows away quickly through the internal drainage system and out into a soakaway.
ARENA SURFACE
There are many different types of surfaces available on the market, the most popular being sand and fibre and terram mixes. Others include sand with a topping of rubber, wax coated sands and wood fibre. Prices vary considerably so your budget will have some bearing on what you choose. Some surfaces such as sand alone may freeze when wet.
CROSS SECTION OF A RIDING ARENA
Contact GP Arenas to discuss your arena requirements, we can offer advice and assist with a planning application.
Our arena construction services include:
- Full outdoor or indoor new arena builds
- Arena drainage advice and solutions
- Full range of surfaces and free advice
- Arena renovations and advice
- Arena insurance work
- Arena fencing
- Local authority planning service
- All work guaranteed and approved
