HORSES will be replaced by tennis rackets under plans for a walled garden on the edge of the New Forest.

Civic chiefs have received a planning application relating to Dodington House, a Grade II-listed building near historic Breamore House.

Consent is being sought to remove a manege - an outdoor exercise area for horses - and install a tennis court. A changing room is also planned.

The proposal has been submitted to New Forest District Council.

A design and access statement that forms part of the application says Dodington House is a Tudor-style building that dates from the early 19th century as the rectory for Breamore church.

It adds: "This application concerns a walled garden, 30 metres to the east of the house, which was converted some years ago into a manege.

"A tennis court is proposed to replace this since our clients have no intention of owning horses."

A heritage statement adds: "The site is 30 metres away from the listed house and is invisible from it.

"The proposed tennis court will have no impact on the listed house or surrounding buildings, as it will be enclosed in the original walled garden.

"The new changing room has been designed in oak framing, with hand-made clay plain tiles and vertical timber cladding to match surrounding Breamore buildings."