NEW HOPE FOR DOG WALKING FACILITY AFTER PREVIOUS PLANS QUASHED

It could be 2nd time lucky for an Isle of Wight dog walking facility after plans were quashed earlier this year. Plans for the facility in Newchurch were refused but have now been resubmitted, this time in the rural countryside near Hale Common — where an agricultural field off Bathingbourne Lane could become an exercise paddock for dogs. It would be surrounded by hedges and deer fencing which would mean the furry, 4-legged friends could be let off the lead and still be safe and secure. While times may vary depending on the season, plans say the business, operated by Jenny Ware, could use the site every day between 07:00 and 20:00. The use of the site would be strictly controlled, planning documents say, and a booking system used to limit the number of dogs there at once to 6, for a 55-minute slot. It would primarily be used as a space for working dog training, obedience and behavioural training and as a secure exercise area for those dogs that cannot normally be let off the lead. A shelter is proposed to be added to the 0.9ha site but it would be temporary and moveable and the field retained for agricultural use if needed in the future. The plans in Newchurch were refused by the Isle of Wight Council in August as it was near residential properties and there were concerns it could be noisy and change the tranquil nature of the site. Plans say the new site, which is not in a built-up environment, is ideal and has been carefully selected as a more appropriate alternative. You can view the plans, 23/02134/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 17th January.