Nub News can exclusively reveal this morning that cornerstone of the community, Park Lane Stables, has submitted plans to Richmond Council for the exciting refurb of the stables in Park Lane, Teddington.

The plans show the final proposals for the refurbishment of the historic building that dates back to at least the 1830s, which will make the stables more comfortable for staff, members and horses alike.

The key change to the stables will be that previous accommodation at the eastern end of the building will be converted into a quiet area with some additional facilities. This will include the now famous 'cuddle door' stable which will overlook the pavement. Having horses in this section of the building will not be a new feature as there were previously at least two stables located in the same area, according to a local expert.

Courtyard 1 of Park Lane Stables, the forecasted drawings were completed by local architects, Architecture:WK.

Due to the adjustments to the eastern end of the building, that will change the overall look of the building, planning approval is likely to be required.

Drawings completed by Teddington-based Architecture:WK have already been submitted to Richmond upon Thames for the pre-application phase where council planners will provide informal advice prior to a formal planning application, should it be needed. If required, the Council will then seek the views of residents who may be affected by the plans before making a final decision.

The submitted proposals from Park Lane Stables includes plans for one less stable, seven rather than eight, meaning the site will not see an intensification in the use for riding and will see no increase in vehicle movements of horses, hay, straw or of staff and visitors.

Staff at Park Lane Stables are well underway with preparations and have already begun stripping centuries of paint from the old fabric of the building to ensure any structural work is identified. A contractor will immediately be appointed once any approvals are secured.

Commenting on the plans for the stables' refurb, Park lane Stables Owner Natalie O'Rourke, said: "Despite the glorious history of our stables in Teddington, the building was not built with horse welfare and humans with additional needs in mind and it is therefore critical we modernise.

"Externally it won't look a lot different but of course it will be cleaner and structurally sound. And the "wall of bricks" bearing the names of 1200 supporters will finally become a reality as we restore Park Lane Stables as a community asset ready for the next 100 years!"

From a Teddington stables on the brink of eviction in May 2021, the exciting future plans for Park Lane Stables shows the remarkable change in fortunes as it prepares to embark on the next chapter of its wonderful fairytale.

Looking for some inspiration for Christmas presents this year? Click HERE to browse the Park Lane Stables Christmas Shop.