Dog-Walking Facility Plans Refused Over Impact On Protected Countryside

Plans for a ‘much-needed’ dog-walking facility on agricultural land in the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) have been refused.

Cridmore Farm Company proposed a change of use of a field within its 870-acres southeast of Rookley to provide a secure area for exercising or training dogs.

County Hall ruled the proposed use would not contribute to the sustainability of the wider countryside or meet a specific local need and would not be appropriate on the site.

A decision report said the visual impact and level of noise and disturbance resulting from the development would be contrary to Island planning policy and the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan.

“The noise and activities associated with dog walking/training/agility would harm the tranquillity of the IWNL location”, it said.

IWNL’s consultee comment on the application said the proposal fails to conserve and enhance the protected area.

A Planning Statement previously submitted from Dicksons Planning and Development said the proposed use would involve private bookings and be disability friendly.

It said:

“The farm owner has identified a local need for this type of facility and believes a dog walking field set in the rural countryside will be a valuable addition to the dog walking community locally and to the Isle of Wight as a whole.”

Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council previously said it was ‘broadly supportive’ of the proposal.