West Midlands Police to get own mounted unit after plans approved
West Midlands Police is to have its own mounted unit to help maintain order at major events such as football matches and boost visibility.
Birmingham City Council’s planning committee approved a proposal to remove two bowling greens at the Tally Ho Training Centre in Pershore Road, Edgbaston to house the new facility.
The unit would involve the creation of a stable for 12 horses while the existing bowling club would be retained for visitors.
A report to committee members said West Midlands Police is one of the forces in the country not to have its own mounted unit.
There is an increasing demand for them, particularly at football matches, while officers said locating them at the force’s training centre was ideal as horses can trot into the city centre rather than being transported from elsewhere in the country.
Officers also said the loss of the bowling greens was mitigated by other nearby facilities while the previous occupiers had successfully relocated nearby.
A total of four new full time police staff roles would be created as a result of the mounted unit being introduced.
Councillor Lee Marsham, chair of the planning committee, said: “As a frequent visitor to Villa Park, last year there was an increased use of mounted police units and I was always amazed they were coming from far flung places as far as Gloucestershire.
“So I imagine that is considerable expense for West Midlands Police but also not great for animal welfare to travel such a distance as well. I think this is something we should be supporting.”
Councillor Gareth Moore, who sits on te West Midlands Police and Crime Panel, added: “It will certainly not be a novelty as certain people have expressed concerns about in the past but it will be an opportunity to strengthen policing within the city.
“There are very few police forces that do have their own mounted unit and it will be an opportunity for us to support others with their policing needs.
“This gives a real opportunity for West Midlands police to be on the map as it should be so loss of the bowling green is regrettable but the report sets out there is alternative provision.”
