Essex pub to become "equestrian centre"

Stop me if you've heard this before – A horse walks into a bar, and the bartender says, "Why the long face?"
This is one of those jokes which seems to defy logic. For starters, why would a horse go into a pub in the first place? Moreover, is it even possible for a bar to accommodate one of these creatures?
However, several horses may soon be entering a pub in Essex – because the venue is being converted into an "equestrian centre".
Reportedly, the Wheatsheaf pub has been closed since 2006, but plans have been approved which should transform the site. As well as constructing a "riding arena", the venue will also feature buildings such as a post office, a restaurant, and shops.
Therefore, visitors might be able to take their steeds for a ride, enjoy a quality meal, and then perhaps purchase the latest in equestrian clothing. In addition, it has been claimed that the finished site may help to improve rider safety as well as benefit the local community.
Furthermore, the project should involve building a home within the area. Considering that the site seems to be catering towards participants of equestrianism, I hope designers plan on including a bridle suite for the animals.
Get it? Bridle suit? Horse bridles? Fair enough, I'll try to make fewer jokes and focus on writing these pieces instead.
Photo © aldenchadwick via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence