KWPN Agree in Principle to Move to KNHS at Ermelo
15 years ago StraightArrow Comments Off on KWPN Agree in Principle to Move to KNHS at Ermelo
ERMELO, Netherlands, Aug. 23–KWPN, the Royal Warmblood Studbook of the Netherlands, has signed a agreement of intent to base itself at Ermelo which is the home of the Dutch equestrian federation.
The agreement between the boards of the two organizations was in response to “ the very long-lived desire of their members” many of whom belong to both groups, to build a major national equestrian center. The membership of both entities still have to approve the agreement.
Under the agreement, KWPN will build offices, horse stalls and other facilities on land leased from KNHS. In turn, KNHS will build a new riding hall which will also be used by the KWPN.
The town of Ermelo and province of Gelderland have pledged a subsidy of €500,000 (US$635,000) for construction of the hall.
KNHS President Martien van den Heuvel said both groups recognized the importance to each other of sport and breeding. He said he was confident the agreement would be approved by all parties.
KWPN Chairman Henk Visser is enthusiastic about the proposed cooperation that he believes will benefit quality.
“Breeding and sport are inextricably linked,” he said, “and will now be together in an equestrian center.”
Member councils of the KWPN and KNHS will meet in mid-September to decide on the agreement. If approved, the aim is to have the project completed by the end of 2011.
Kees Visser, the owner of Moorlands Stables and Moorlands Totilas, and Wilco van Grunsven, active in horse sports as well as being in the construction and real estate business, provided advice in reaching the agreement.
