Town councillors have this week supported 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 involves agricultural land at at Watchfield Lawn in Walrow, Highbridge being used for ‘dog walking and recreation’.
Town councillors considered the application at a meeting on Wednesday (September 18th) where it was passed without observation. A final decision rests with 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.
Somerset Council is inviting feedback on the plans for the new dog walking field, which would 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.”
The application has reference 11/24/00058 and comments can be made through Somerset Council’s online planning portal until October 4th, 2024.
