§ SIR HARRY VERNEYsaid, he wished to ask the First Commissioner of Works, Whether, considering the increasing numbers of the frequenters of the Park on horseback, and the importance of not diminishing the space for that exercise and enjoyment, he will reconsider his decision to debar them from riding along the Western portion of Rotten Row, on the South side of Kensington Gardens, which has hitherto been open to the public, which affords the best view of the monument of the late Prince Consort, and gives an access to Kensington without passing along the carriage road?
§ MR. AYRTONsaid, in reply, that he could assure his hon. Friend that the regulation alluded to had not been made without sufficient consideration. The interest of those who rode on horseback in the Park had been very much considered. Only three years ago a new road was made, exclusively for their benefit, of the length of 1,447 yards, on the north side of the Park; and, when this improvement was contemplated, Rotten Row itself was extended by the length of 1,300 yards, and this was done expressly with a view to the new arrangement. With respect to the inhabitants of houses in the immediate vicinity of the particular spot referred to, no doubt they would have to turn a little aside when riding, but it would give them the most agreeable part of the Park for their recreation. With respect to the best view of the Prince Consort's monument his hon. Friend was entirely in error, and could not have been in that direction lately, or he would have discovered that the face of the memorial looked in the opposite direction to what he supposed, being not towards the north but towards the south. The frequenters of this part of the Park would be able to ride along the front, where they would have a beautiful view of it. He would also remind his hon. Friend that regard should be had to the interests of those who walked in the Park as well as of those who rode in it, and that justice should be done to both parties.