Racing restrictions outside Jeremy Clarkson’s pub have been supported by local politicians.
Until November 21, West Oxfordshire District Council is consulting on whether to introduce a public space protection order from Downs Road Bridge in Witney to the Asthall roundabout in Burford.
The latter is the location of The Farmer’s Dog, owned by former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson and a regular location in the latest season of Amazon Prime Show The Farmer’s Dog.
The reason for it is, according to Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber, “to address the issue of pony and trap racing on the A40”.
He said: “West Oxfordshire District Council is working closely with Thames Valley Police to tackle this risky, disruptive and anti-social practice.”
If enacted, it would be in place until December 31, 2028, and prohibit the use of the stretch of road for the races in which the horses move at a specific gait and pull a two-wheeled cart occupied by a driver.
Breaching it would be a criminal offence subject to a fine of up to £1,000.
Inspector Chris Ball of Thames Valley Police called the practice “extremely dangerous” even though it is not illegal in isolation.
He said: “Races in this area have caused significant disruption to local communities and businesses, and have led to reckless behaviour that endangers lives.”
Insp Ball would welcome the order and said police are “keen to work with race organisers to identify alternative, safe venues so these events do not put the public at risk or disrupt road users”.
When putting the proposal forward, the district council’s executive member for housing and social care, Geoff Saul, said he understood the practice has “cultural significance” but that public roads “must be safe for everyone”.
The Labour politician said: “We are working closely with the police to enforce restrictions and prevent further incidents before someone is seriously hurt or worse.”
Councillor Thomas Ashby agreed that “we should respect traditions” but was adamant that these “cannot supersede public and animal safety”.
Over the last 18 months he said he has seen over 20 instances of people coming to participate and view the races from West Witney to near The Farmer’s Dog on the Asthall roundabout.
Supporting the order, the Conservative added: “Pony and trap racing on a major arterial road is unacceptably dangerous and cannot continue.
“This activity has disrupted residents for years, leading to blocked access (including driveways and access to Windrush Place) and causing traffic on the A40 to grind to a halt.”
Mr Barber said he hoped the order would “act as a deterrent” there were wider issues.
“The current law is inadequate, and I have written to the Department for Transport asking for a change in legislation to be considered,” he said.
MP for Witney Charlie Maynard agrees legislation is required to tackle the “dangerous and irresponsible” practice of racing horses on the A40.
The Liberal Democrat said: “Unfortunately, a quirk in the law means that this consultation is necessary if we are going to be able to stop it.
“I am working with my colleague, Sarah Green, MP for Chesham and Amersham and we have a meeting with a minister in the next couple of weeks to explore ways that the law can be brought up to date.”
As part of its consultation on the order, the district council held an event designed to engage the public.
A spokesperson said that around 15 people attended and that they were “generally support of the proposal”.
The spokesperson said: “Questions included queries about alternative options and the wider consultation process, and attendees had the opportunity to discuss these with representatives from the council and Thames Valley Police.”
