Plans for dog walking paddock divide opinion in Meon Valley

Susan Goodman wants to construct an enclosed paddock for commercial use by the general public at Fillditch Farm, Forest Road, Swanmore, near Bishop's Waltham.

But the plan is being opposed with 11 objections.

Cllr Vicki Weston, the ward councillor, has requested the plans be determined by committee.

Swanmore Parish Council has objected to commercial development in a strategic gap.

There were also ten objections citing loss of residential amenity in terms of noise and disturbance, highway safety and the adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area.

The objectors include local city councillor Malcolm Wallace, who lives on Forest Road and said: "The potential noise impact has not been properly assessed and could have a significant impact on the quality of life/health and wellbeing of residents in neighbouring properties."

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In the noise management plan Mrs Goodman states: "The operation of the site will be overseen by the owners of the business and access to the site will only be permitted when they are in attendance. The owners have worked with dogs for many years and have undertaken training in canine behaviour and well being, training, first aid and psychology as well as having experience in on site security and management."

The plan is due to go before the city council planning committee on Wednesday January 11. Planning officer Nicola Clayton is recommending it be approved by councillors "as it is considered that it will have an acceptable impact on the character of the area and would not harm neighbouring amenity".

A report to the planning committee states: "In terms of physical landscape, fencing and hardstanding has been constructed on the site. Enclosures and hardstanding are common features within the rural area and this site is screened by existing hedgerows and trees. The most prominent view of the site would be from Forest Road. Prior to the development, users would be met with a view of an open field. As a result of the development, post and wire fencing is installed and a small outbuilding has been positioned. The development is considered to be small scale and an acceptable low key recreation activity in the rural area."

The council's own environmental health team is recommending that if approved the paddock should have operating hours of 8am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays with closure on Sundays and bank holidays.

The officer's report said the noise management plan by Steve and Sue Goodman must be adhered to at all times.

The plan has taken a long time to reach committee, having been submitted in September 2021.