A £1million horse-riding centre, bird house and sensory garden are among new attractions planned for Bingley's country park.

Bradford Independent Health Care is proposing to build an indoor and outdoor farm, which would be open to the public at weekends, near its disabled unit in St Ives park at Harden.

The scheme, submitted to Shipley planners, includes an indoor horse-riding arena which would be open to disabled people from across the district.

The unit's equestrian manager Mandy Asquith, pictured, who is qualified to teach horse-riding to people with special needs, said the project would benefit everyone.

"It's a fantastic plan and part of a five- to ten-year development plan which we'd like to see go ahead," she said.

"This is such a lovely park which is growing in popularity and is a perfect location for horse-riding and a farm."

Mrs Asquith said the farm and bird house would also be open to school groups. The centre has one horse which was bought by the Riding for the Disabled Association.

The sensory garden would include scented flowers, such as lavender and honeysuckle, and a water feature.

Bradford Council, which owns the park, last year carried out a number of improvements at the 100-acre site, including signposted footpaths. A new tea room is also being built.

Councillor David Heseltine (Cons, Bingley) said the proposals would mean extra attractions for the Bingley area.

"Last summer's medieval fair at the park was a massive success. There is a lot of scope for development up there," he said.

Written representations about the plan can be sent to the planning department at Shipley town hall.

Fundraising events are planned to help buy more horses.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer is asked to contact Mrs Asquith on (01274) 561893.