A code of conduct for use of Epsom and Walton Downs has been issued after clashes between users of the famous green space.
Epsom and Walton Downs Conservators have produced guidelines for use of the land, which is privately owned, to prevent horses becoming startled, reinforce safety measures and for the general upkeep of the Downs.
An Act of Parliament allows the public access for “fresh air and exercise” and states the primary use of the land is for racehorse training.
An Epsom Council spokesman said fresh guidance has been formulated following a “growing number of conflicts” among the Downs’ users and new signs have been put up on the Downs about the code of conduct.
The code reminds hack riders to stay on designated marked areas and not to use the training gallops at any time, cyclists to keep to their specific routes and warns joggers and walkers to avoid exercising next to the gallops during horserace training times and reminds them they have no right to access to the racecourse itself other than at the designated crossing points.
It also states that dogs should be kept on leads and under strict control during training times in particular and owners must ensure they clean up after their dogs and use litter bins provided to dispose of bagged waste.
Racehorse training times on the Downs are 6.15am to 12pm Monday to Saturday and 8am to 9.30am on Sundays. The owners of racehorses trained on the Downs pay a monthly fee to use them.
A percentage of this goes towards the Conservators, which funds the daily administration and running of the Downs, including the Downskeepers.
Simon Dow, a trainer at Clear Height Stables on Epsom Downs, said: “From a horseman's point of view, there are many potential circumstances which can alarm and startle horses which may not be apparent to the public.
“The new code of conduct clearly explains that dogs must be kept under strict control and that cyclists, runners and walkers must keep well away from the horses and be prepared to stop if asked to do so”.
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