Somerset Council has this week approved plans for a new secure site for dog walking to be created on field outside Highbridge.
A planning application submitted to Somerset Council by applicants JE & LP Reason will see agricultural land at at Watchfield Lawn in Walrow, Highbridge being used for ‘dog walking and recreation’.
Town councillors recently considered the application where it was supported and the final go-ahead has been given by Somerset Council.
The plans show a livestock building would be turned into an enclosed indoor space for clients, and a 1.9m fence and a secure car park would be built.
The new dog walking field will be accessed using an existing gateway and stone track from Mark Road.
The planning statement adds: “The applicants are looking to diversify their existing agricultural business and wish to run a dog walking field/business, and therefore require the ability for the public to exercise dogs in the field within a secure environment.”
“It is proposed to convert a field next to an existing commercial business park, so when viewed from afar, it will appear in keeping. The field is screened to the south, east and west by existing development and the existing business park.”
“Once through the gateway, there will be a turning area to enable a three-point turn to be carried out and two car parking spaces. French drains will be installed around the hardstanding area to ensure any surface-water run-off will not run directly into the watercourse.”
The statement continues: “The applicants have received requests from the public seeking permission to use the applicants’ land for dog walking purpose within a safe environment. With the current rate of dog ownership and property development in the area, the applicants wish to provide a facility that is safe and secure.”
