§ 43. Lieut.-Commander BOWERasked the First Commissioner of Works if he will state what restrictions are imposed upon riders in Richmond Park; and whether it is intended to increase these restrictions?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)The restrictions are included in the Statutory Regulations made for the park, copies of which are prominently displayed at all the gates. Owing to the grave disfigurement of the park caused by the destruction of the turf by the increasing number of riders, the question of imposing additional restrictions is now under serious consideration. Owing to excessive damage steps have already been taken to close certain grass tracks to riders.
§ Lieut.-Commander BOWERHaving regard to the fact that equestrians have been actually driven off the roads, will the right hon Gentleman give an assurance that no restrictions which are not absolutely necessary will be imposed?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORECertainly; it never was intended to impose restrictions other than in the interests of the riders themselves.