Controversial plans for dog walking area and sensory garden in Warkworth set to go before council
Controversial plans to create a dog walking area on the edge of Warkworth are set to be decided.
A planning application seeking change of use permission for the field was submitted by Lizzie Bell of Canine Adventures last March.
It is due to be determined by members of Northumberland County Council’s north planning committee on Thursday, March 19.
The application is being recommended for approval by officers but has been put before committee members due to the volume of opposition.
There have been 31 letters of objection and Warkworth Parish Council has voiced its concerns.
A number of residents have raised concerns about the impact on wildlife, while others are concerned that development of a site for a commercial business outside of the settlement boundary would risk creating a precedent for future applications.
Other concerns about an increase in traffic on a narrow road already used by lorries at the nearby water treatment works have also been raised.
The proposal for land to the north of Watershaugh Road includes a sensory garden for children with additional needs and has received support from Barndale School and the North Northumberland branch of the National Autistic Society (NAS).
The applicant already operates a secure dog walking field in Ancroft, near Berwick.
A planning report on her behalf states: “The principle aspect of the development is to provide secure dog walking which has proved to be extremely popular at the applicant’s existing facility.
"On top of this, the provision of a sensory garden will provide a much-needed additional facility, which is supported by local schools and organisations.
“The market research undertaken by the applicant demonstrates that there is a need for such facilities and that this location, adjacent to Warkworth, would provide an excellent location.”
There have been no objections from the council’s highways department, ecologist or public protection team.
The council’s planning department, recommending approval, state: “The existing use of the land is for agricultural purposes. Whilst there is no evidence the proposal will facilitate rural diversification, it will promote the rural economy and tourist development in a sustainable location as it is in close proximity to Warkworth village.
“Furthermore, the development is small scale with a minimal built form and is in character with the surrounding rural aesthetic.”