Winchester dog owners may soon benefit from a secure dog field, under Hampshire County Council's proposals.

The council plans for the facility next to Crab Wood to offer a safe area for off-leash dog exercise and training.

The idea aims to lessen dog walking impact on Crab Wood Local Nature Reserve, safeguarding the significant Site of Special Scientific Interest. A planning application for two secure dog fields, sited on cleared, non-wooded areas of Lanham Lane, is awaiting Winchester City Council's approval.

The facility, only open for pre-booked users, with its own parking, could potentially open this autumn.

Councillor Kirsty North, the county council’s cabinet lead for universal services, said: "Many more people own a dog since the Covid-19 pandemic, which has led to a rise in people walking their pets in Hampshire’s popular countryside. Under this proposal, dog owners could enjoy the use of a secure field next to Crab Wood offering a safe, controlled place to exercise and socialise with their four-legged companions.

"The income generated would go towards the set up and upkeep of the facility, and contribute to our work protecting Hampshire’s magnificent countryside, at a time when budgets are under extreme pressure."