A SUCCESSFUL Broadway horse-training business could be prevented from expanding because of Wychavon District Council's policy not to allow development in a rural area.

The owner of Peasebrook Farm in Cheltenham Road wants to construct a Cotswold-style building for staff accommodation and an office.

The Peasebrook Stud Equestrian business was set up at the farm in 1987 and has grown into a successful horse breeding and training company.

In the agenda for the council's development control and licensing committee, which will be discussed at a meeting today, the owner claims that to prosper in a competitive market, the company would need to follow in the footsteps of other successful businesses and provide staff accommodation on site.

He adds that the new building would be out of public view, next to the paddocks and masked by existing farm buildings.

A letter submitted to the council from the Peasebrook Equestrian Clinic, which has carried out veterinary care for the horses since 1992, said having staff nearby to care for recuperating horses and foaling mares due to give birth was essential.

The company's trainer, Mr Doran, said in the letter to planning officers that many clients had also raised concerns about security after the yard was broken into several times and saddles and electrical equipment was stolen.

"This is a secluded spot and open to vandalism or burglary," he wrote. "Not only are we concerned with these problems, it is also problematic with regard to the security criteria issued by the Racing Industry. Horses in training must be in a secure unit otherwise the drugging of horses before a race can take place without the knowledge of the trainer or the owner."

Despite Government policy supporting the diversification of farm businesses, planning officers have recommended refusal because the development goes against county council and district council policy.

The owners of Peasebrook Stud Equestrian were unavailable for comment as the Journal went to press.