By Neil McGrory

Copyright dailyrecord

A startup equestrian company is seeking permission from North Lanarkshire Council to establish premises near Airdrie . Shielhill Equestrian Enterprise submitted a planning application requesting approval for a residential lodge, portacabin-style outbuilding and two containers in retrospect at Shielhill in Longriggend. The application explains that the applicant purchased the 18-acre property in October 2021 but at the time the ground was unsuitable for vehicles and it has subsequently been upgraded. A supporting statement adds that the business will be focused on horse breeding with the possibility of also offering livery or training services, and can accommodate a maximum of 10 horses. It adds that it is necessary to include a residential property as someone needs to be present 24/7 to care for the horses, due to foaling and potential veterinary emergencies as well as security. It is planned to cater for up to five horses over the initial couple of years before expanding to the maximum of 10, at which point it may become necessary to hire part-time staff, while the local rural economy would benefit from sales and the use of services. For additional information on this application, or to leave comment for consideration, visit North Lanarkshire Council’s website and search for planning reference 25/00742/FUL. *Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here . And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here .