Plans to turn farmland into private dog exercise facility submitted
A couple from Llangernyw are seeking planning permission to turn part of their farmland into a private dog exercise facility. Dewi and Iola Roberts have submitted an application to Conwy 's planning department for a change of use at their small agricultural field northeast of their property, Plas yn Trofarth.
The proposal, which is set to be discussed by councillors next week, would see the grazing land converted into a secure dog exercise field, complete with a small shelter, dedicated parking area, and landscaping works. If approved, the facility would operate daily between 6am and 10pm, closing at 8pm on Sundays and bank holidays, and would be accessible by pre-booked sessions.
Each 50-minute slot would allow use by up to two dog owners at a time, with access managed by a weekly code-lock system. The plans include parking space for up to three vehicles, new boundary fencing around the site, and a 2.4m timber shelter for users. Sign up for the North Wales Live newslettersent twice daily to your inbox.
According to planning officers, the site is 'well screened' by existing trees and shrubbery, with the nearest dwelling over 100m away and most others located more than a kilometre from the field. While situated within the Elwy and Aled Valley Special Landscape Area, the site is considered too small for viable agriculture.
Officers also noted the presence of a nearby watercourse and potential flood risk. Due to the applicants' relationship with a serving councillor, the proposal has been brought before the planning committee for transparency.
Planning officers are recommending that members be "minded to grant" conditional approval. A planning statement reads: 'The proposed development will not negatively impact the character of the local area, with particular consideration given to the fact that the site is within a Special Landscape Area.
'The only structure being erected on site would be a moveable shelter, which will be wooden cladded and designed to integrate well into the character of the local area. Additionally, views of the site will be screened considerably by the existing woodlands and vegetation surrounding the site, mitigating the ability to see the site from nearby and from distant views.'
The plans will be debated at Conwy's Coed Pella HQ at the council's next planning committee meeting on Wednesday 13 August.
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