Controversial pony trekking, which has resulted in people being excluded from a section of public land, has been launched in a regional park.

Conservationists say they have been ignored when decisions are taken over protected land off Lea Bridge Road, which is managed by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

Recently the authority was granted permission to turn a disused gold course at the Waterworks site in Walthamstow into a campsite, despite opposition from the Save Lea Marsh group.

And now the group has spoken out after pony trekking was introduced to the area, which has seen a section fenced off from the public to house the animals.

Campaigner Caroline Day said the public should have access to the land and are being priced out of enjoying the activity.

The Lee Valley Riding Centre charges £25 person or £80 for four people.

She said: "We feel this has been completely rushed through to try and make money.

"Local people are being shoved out for people with more money from outside the borough to come in.

"The price is a lot of money and most people in Waltham Forest can’t afford that, whereas the golf course used to cost between £5 and £7.50." 

Lee Valley Riding Centre manager Irena Grint said: "We are delighted to offer this new pony trekking experience to customers.

"It’s a fun and safe way for riders to experience riding outdoors with our guidance and to learn about pony trekking – all in the beautiful surroundings of the WaterWorks Centre nature reserve."

Lee Valley Regional Park Authority gained permission from the council to walk ponies through the reserve on July 2.