Dog walking park plans for Sawtry field on Glatton Road

A planning application seeks approval to convert one hectare of farmland on Glatton Road, Sawtry, into a dog walking field.

The field would be operated by Sawtry Dog Park, a new venture by Measures Farms Ltd, the existing owner of the site.

A design and access statement said the "growing challenges of agriculture" meant it was "necessary" for farming businesses to diversify.

"Dog owners appreciate the dog park for several reasons, particularly that they have a safe and secure enclosed space for dogs to roam off a lead," the statement said.

"Many countryside and park walks are intersected by roads or fields occupied by animals making off lead.

"Some dogs do not socialise well with other dogs and benefit from not being able to come across other unknown dogs.

"As well as providing a service to dog walkers, the use will provide a recreational amenity to the surrounding area, without impacting on the local community."

If approved, obstacles would be placed within the park to "create interest for some dogs and owners" to "enrich their play."

Sessions would be pre-booked with slots ranging from 25 minutes to one hour and 55 minutes and dog walkers unable to "turn up speculatively."

Wooden fencing measuring just under two metres would be installed around the perimeter of the field and set five metres from the hedge.

A hardstanding car park for up to three vehicles would also be provided within the field for owners to "safely get dogs from their car".

"Whilst a car park has been provided and the figures provided for traffic are based on each user coming by car," the statement added.

"It is very possible to access the location on foot using existing and well used footpaths.

"For those looking to exercise their dog and living in Sawtry this is likely to be a desirable access route."

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