Built around the equine facilities will be one storey log homes that have a low carbon footprint. Developer, The Villages Group, is minimising the use of concrete, aiming for maximum energy retention with the use of high levels of insulation and energy reducing glazing.
The one and two bedroom homes will be framed constructions and built with a minimum effect on local fauna and flora and the aim is to also reduce the impact of heavy goods vehicle deliveries to the site.
The development is being styled as an Equestrian Village as research indicates there is a demand among people aged 50 an over to have a healthy and active lifestyle which horse riding can provide.
One aim is to offer the chance for residents to enjoy the wooded hillsides and countryside on horse back as riding offers emotional and physical benefits. The developer points out that equine therapy or hippotherapy, which uses a horse's rhythmic movement to provide a base of physical support, allows people build flexibility and postural strength.
‘It is clear that the relationship between humans and animals is strong. While horses can provide help to those with physical and mental ailments, for those in their third age who are in their prime of life and still fighting fit, pleasure can still be had in horse riding,’ said Danny Silver, managing director of The Villages Group.
‘Indeed, a riding holiday is a great idea for anyone who likes nothing better than getting away from it all and exploring the great outdoors and it is for this reason that we at The Villages Group are developing an active living resort at an equestrian site in this unique area of France,’ explained Silver.
The Equestrian Centre Village has now been given the go ahead by the Community Mayor. ‘Although the main activity here will be horse riding, residents can also enjoy numerous other activities including cycling, canoeing, golf, potholing, hot air ballooning and even hand gliding as well as excellent fishing in the free to use private lake, all within easy reach,’ added Silver.
The concept for The Villages Group in France has taken four years of research and development to create the first active living resorts in France dedicated to the over 50's.
Four resorts are planned, all in outstanding natural environments and with on site amenities including tennis courts, indoor pool, gymnasium, and quality entertainment programmes.
