Gellings riding school

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Gellings Riding School in Knowsley, Merseyside. Gellings has been a cornerstone in our community, offering unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and connection with nature, especially for our younger residents. However, this valuable institution and a vital part of our green belt, the last remaining stretch between Liverpool and Knowsley, now faces an existential threat.

The riding school, located on School Lane, is much more than a recreational facility; it's a lifeline to the youth and residents of both Liverpool and Knowsley, fostering positive activities in an area where such opportunities are increasingly scarce. Recent statistics from the Knowsley Youth Offending Service indicate a promising decrease in youth crime rates, with a 77% decrease in first-time entrants into the youth justice system over the past decade, thanks in part to community-focused initiatives like Gellings. However, this progress is at risk due to the potential closure of the school, which would not only eliminate a key recreational and therapeutic outlet but also signal the end of Knowsley as a distinct green borough.

Unfortunately, the riding school's future is in jeopardy. The land on which Gellings stands is at risk of being sold for development, which would not only mean the loss of this community asset but also a further reduction in our already scarce green spaces such as Croxteth Country Park. It is one of the last remaining riding schools in Merseyside, a region that has seen many similar establishments close due to funding cuts and land development pressures.