A plan for a dog training site near Ower has sparked objections as it is near a medieval moat.

Stephen Griffiths wants to use the site on land adjacent to Copse Cottages in Ridge Lane.

Historic England raised concerns, specifically a fence set to run across the former moat.

In a comment to Test Valley Borough Council, Johanna Short, assistant inspector of ancient monuments, said: “Located within the application site lies a well-defined and nationally important scheduled monument, in the form of a medieval moated site with associated fishponds.

"The proposals have the potential to cause harm to the significance of the designated heritage asset.

"However, not enough information has been provided for a meaningful assessment to be made of the impact that the proposals may have on the scheduled monument and its setting.

"Our recommendation is that further information is provided by the applicant, specifically further details relating to the proposed works.

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“The moated site and two fishponds 300m west of Moorcourt represents a strong example of the prestigious aspirations of the aristocracy in the medieval period.

“Information submitted with the application suggests that the proposal to replace an existing stock fence with a 2m high deer stock fence will result in a direct impact on the nationally important heritage asset.

"The fence line appears to follow the northern and western perimeter of the designated area, and cuts across the earthworks of the moat, the central island and one of the two contemporary fishponds to the west.”

Romsey Town Council's planning committee discussed the application at its meeting on Thursday, March 9. 

They supported the comments from Historic England and submitted an objection.

On the application's planning statement, it said: “Our aim is to offer a secure dog walking facility for residents to walk their dog in a safe environment, with exclusive hire of low-quality agricultural land.

"The idea behind this application is driven by a huge demand to be able to allow dogs dealing with social or behavioural difficulties to walk freely without the fear of loss or interaction with other dogs/wildlife. We currently work with customers that have highly reactive dogs and this will provide a safe environment for them and their dogs. 

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“The site will be limited to exclusive use with a maximum of five dogs, an amount currently well exceeded by locals walking outside this proposal. 

“The site has been carefully considered to ensure good existing access with sensitivity towards any local residence. This proposal will be offering a new facility that can benefit many in the local area.”

For more details on the application, search 23/00338/FULLS von Test Valley Borough Council's planning portal.