Issue - meetings

The next application was introduced as planning application number 143301, for change of use of agricultural land to dog exercising park, on land to the West of Reepham Village Hall, Hawthorn Road, Reepham, Lincoln. The Chairman requested any updates from the Planning Officer and it was explained that a further comment had been received from the Environmental Protection Officer, accepting the waste management plan, providing a contact number was added. That number was added to the plan by the applicant so there was a point of contact for residents or anyone using the site. The start time of 7am had also been accepted. The Officer then detailed the application for the Committee.

The Chairman explained there were three registered speakers, all of whom had submitted statements to be read aloud, and he asked the Democratic Services Officer to begin.

The first statement from the applicant, Joe Good, was read as follows:

“Mr Chairman and members of the planning committee, I am the applicant and local farmer and would like to introduce my proposed project.

This farm diversification proposal came forwards following a huge increase in dog owners over lockdown, and in turn a huge increase in dog walkers. Unfortunately many people are unable to keep to public footpaths which results in trespass causing crop loss, and disturbance to wildlife which we are very keen to preserve. This is when the idea came to light.

The proposal consists of 2.5 acres of purpose sown dog grass with 2m high secure dog fencing and small car parking area for customers using this facility. People will be able to privately hire the exercise field for 1 hour slots from our website and receive a unique code to enter the dog park at the time of the booking.

The dog park is likely to attract:

• People training their young dogs

• Training dogs for a better recall

• Exercise for reactive dogs

• General off lead exercise

We will supply bio-degradable dog waste bags held within a dispenser. Supplied dog waste bin will be collected regularly by Biffa as stated in our waste/ odour management plan along with further details. Signage will be on site reminding customers of the rules and etiquette, mainly to promote picking up behind your pets. We will spot pick the field on a regular basis and monitor.

The proposal is located on a relatively unproductive field corner with existing access to Hawthorn road, screened by mature hedging. We feel a safe dog facility of this nature is missing, with only 1 other in Lincoln over 12 miles away.

Having spoken with local residents, the feedback we received was positive. Having liaised with a planning officer through a pre-application process, the feedback was positive.

A farm diversification project like this would bring positivity to the local farming business, whilst delivering a bespoke facility in Reepham.

Many Thanks,

Joe Good”

The second statement, from Ellis Purvis, was read as follows:

“The proposed times of 7 am  ...  view the full minutes text for item 72