10+ Years Experience
Specialist Horse Menages
Are you considering building an outdoor riding arena? A well-designed outdoor arena can be a fantastic addition to your property and a valuable investment in your equestrian activities.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the various costs of building an outdoor riding arena, from budget calculations and site preparation to equipment essentials and long-term maintenance.
If you would like to get a quote for horse menage construction, please get in touch and we will be happy to provide you with a quotation.
A crucial first step in planning your outdoor riding arena is calculating the budget. To do this, you need to consider several factors, including the size, surface materials, and associated construction costs.
By understanding these factors, you can set a realistic budget for your project, ensuring you have the financial resources to create a safe and enjoyable space for horse riding.
Selecting the size of your outdoor riding arena involves considering your needs and intended use.
Our experience shows that the most popular outdoor arena size in the UK is 40x20m, but you can choose from various dimensions, such as 60Mx20M, 50Mx35M, and 40Mx25M.
Your choice will depend on your riding discipline, such as dressage or jumping, and the available space on your property.
The size of the small arena, measured in square foot, will indeed cost considerably, having a significant impact on the total cost of your project.
Your choice of surface type is a key factor influencing the cost and performance of your outdoor riding arena. There are various surface materials available, such as:
Each surface has its cost, advantages, and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on factors such as your preferred riding discipline, the local climate, and the amount of maintenance required.
Regardless, choosing the appropriate chosen surface material will guarantee a safe and consistent riding experience while maintaining manageable costs.
The labour and construction costs associated with building an outdoor riding arena can vary, depending on factors such as the arena’s size, design complexity, site conditions, and local labour rates.
Some potential costs include fencing materials (wood, vinyl, or steel), limestone, recycled rail ballast, granite, crushed concrete, chopped rubber, and arena sand.
Obtaining quotes from local contractors and sourcing materials locally can help reduce haulage costs. With careful management of labour, construction expenses, and site visits, your outdoor arena project can stay within budget.
Choosing the perfect location for your outdoor riding arena is key to its success and longevity. Factors such as the arena’s size, footing material, terrain, and drainage should be taken into account. Once you have chosen the perfect site, you will need to prepare it for construction.
This process involves clearing any vegetation or debris, installing drainage systems, and laying a suitable base material such as stone or sand.
Analysing soil and planning drainage are key to a successful outdoor riding arena project. Proper drainage helps with the following:
Stone dust, river sand, and clay base that is levelled and compacted are the most suitable types of soil for outdoor riding arenas, including sandy soil.
Consult an engineer to sample soils, test compaction, and design an appropriate drainage system to guarantee effective water management. The sand brought to the site should be of high quality to ensure the best results.
Levelling and grading are integral steps in the construction process of your outdoor riding arena. A smooth and even surface is crucial for the safety and performance of both horse and rider.
The recommended best practices for levelling and grading an outdoor riding arena include:
Selecting an evenly graded material for the footing surface, and choosing a well-drained, hard standing area for the arena location.
Fencing and security measures are key components of your outdoor riding arena. Suitable fencing options include PVC fencing, metal post with plastic fencing, racetrack rail, and vinyl fencing.
When selecting fencing for your arena, consider safety for both the rider and the horse, durability and weather resistance, an appropriate height and visibility, and ease of access and maintenance.
Costs for fencing can vary depending on the type of fencing chosen. Proper fencing and security measures will keep your arena safe and functional for years to come.
Building an outdoor riding arena requires considering additional costs and factors. These may include legal fees, such as obtaining planning permission, zoning authorisations, environmental impact assessments, and inspections or certifications.
Long-term maintenance and upkeep should also be included in your budget to guarantee the ongoing safety and functionality of your arena.
Planning permission is required for the construction of an outdoor riding arena. The cost of obtaining planning permission can vary, and some arena installation companies may include it in their total project cost.
The cost of planning permission varies and it is advisable to contact local authorities or arena installation companies for more precise cost details.
Legal fees associated with constructing an outdoor riding arena may differ depending on the locality and particular requirements, so it is advised to consult with local authorities and legal experts to ascertain the exact legal fees applicable to your region.
The long-term maintenance and upkeep of your outdoor riding arena should be considered when planning your budget.
Establishing a routine maintenance schedule and investing in the necessary equipment can help prolong the lifespan of your arena and ensure it remains a safe and enjoyable space for horse riding.
Weatherproofing your outdoor riding arena is necessary to protect it from the elements and ensure its longevity. This process involves:
The cost implications of weatherproofing an outdoor riding arena can vary depending on the materials selected and the arena’s dimensions.
By adequately weatherproofing your arena, you can minimize maintenance costs and maximize the arena’s lifespan.
Having the appropriate equipment is key for effective maintenance and use of your outdoor riding arena. Essential equipment includes:
Selecting the right equipment for your arena will ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience for both you and your horse.
There are various types of footing equipment available for outdoor riding arenas, such as:
When selecting the appropriate footing equipment for your outdoor arena, consider factors such as your riding discipline, size and usage, drainage, cushion and grip, and longevity.
By choosing the best footing equipment for your specific needs, you can maintain a safe and consistent riding surface while minimizing long-term maintenance costs.
Storing your outdoor riding arena equipment and supplies properly is necessary to maintain their condition and ensure easy access. Some storage solutions to consider include:
These options can help keep your equipment organised and protected from the elements.
By investing in appropriate storage solutions, you can prolong the life of your equipment and maintain a well-organised and functional riding space.
In conclusion, building an outdoor riding arena requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including budget, site selection and preparation, additional costs, and equipment essentials.
By following the guidance provided in this blog post, you can create a safe, enjoyable, and functional space for horse riding that will serve you and your equine companions for years to come.
Planning permission is required for an outdoor riding arena. A planning application must be submitted before the construction of the arena can begin.
For an outdoor riding arena, a recommended size is 40m x 20m or 60m x 20m.
For optimal safety, the surface of an outdoor riding arena should be replaced every 5 to 10 years.
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