A HORSE drawn carriage in Windsor that’s struggling to keep afloat has already parted with two horses, following the council’s latest plans.
Peter Langthorne, who runs Windsor Town Horse Drawn Carriages, is currently located on Castle Hill providing memorable trips for tourists around the town.
But last year, the council announced the streets in that area are set to become pedestrianised and has suggested Mr Langthorne moves to St Alban’s Street.
READ MORE: Hundreds sign petition to keep horse drawn carriages outside Windsor Castle
Mr Langthorne said: “It’s not fair, there’s just no footfall on St Alban’s Street and there's just no way in the world I could move there, I'm doomed.
"I suggested many other places to the council of where I can relocate to, but the council are refusing.
“I’ve already had to part with two out of my four horses and on the day they went, I just sat and cried, they’re my babies.
“My horses are my passion and people love seeing us outside Windsor Castle, children love to come and pet the horses each day.”
More than 1,000 people have now signed an online petition, which was started by Mr Langthorne six months ago.
One resident, who has expressed her concerns on the issue, said: “I just think it’s so sad, they have been running there for as long as I can remember and it’s not like they had loads of carriages clogging up the road.
“It always seemed to be a really popular tourist attraction, especially as they were licensed to go up and down the Long Walk, with such a beautiful view of the castle.
“I know many local people have booked this for special birthdays and for grandparents as a lovely, unusual treat.”
The council announced the work will include a wider footpath on the southern side of Castle Hill from its junction with High Street to the junction with St Alban’s Street creating more space for pedestrians.
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A council spokesperson said: “The public realm improvements on Castle Hill are aimed at improving the overall experience and safety of residents and visitors in Windsor.
“The improvements will not see Castle Hill entirely pedestrianised but will give additional safety benefits with the significant reduction of vehicle accessibility, limited to castle access only during visiting hours.”
The council explained a protective gate will also be installed behind the Queen Victoria statue and bollards will be put in place on St Alban’s Street at its junction with Castle Hill to stop traffic.
The spokeperson added: “The council completed a comprehensive consultation with local businesses and residents in December 2020 and January 2021 to gather comments about the improvements, with the scheme supported by the majority of respondents.
“During and subsequent to this, regular meetings have taken place to follow-up issues raised by businesses and identify alternative solutions to allow their continued success.”
Visit Change.org to sign the petition.
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