Ardersier farm could host new secured dog field for pet owners between Inverness and Nairn
Dog owners in Ardersier and surroundings could see a new dedicated fenced space to walk their pets coming to the area.
Plans have been lodged with Highland Council to convert land at Kylerona Farm, north of the village, into a new dog exercising area.
The proposal includes a dedicated parking area and also upgrades to the existing farm track to improve access to the site.
The planning statement reports: “The proposal represents a farm diversification project and uses an area of land that is close to existing commercial uses, maintains the wider integrity of the farm for animal husbandry and crops and is distant from existing houses.
“There is an increasing demand for dog exercise facilities and this site is within easy distance of the main conurbations of Nairn and Inverness and in particular the residential expansion areas to the west of the site.
“Farm diversification projects are supported by NPF4 Policy 29 and this proposal accords with the relevant policy criteria of the adopted local development plans. The site can accommodate the proposed use without detriment to the area and supports the vitality and viability of the farm holding.”
Should the proposal go ahead, it is written that the area will operate a “strict online booking system” and likely with a maximum number of customers restricted to 6 for any one session.
Sessions will typically be on an hourly basis, with 15-minute intervals between bookings to allow for customers to vacate the site and opening hours are expected to be from 9am to 4pm in winter months and from 9am to 7pm in summer.
Plans will be under consultation until March 10.
