PETER Coleman of Creedy Carver Ltd has applied for planning permission to turn a field at Merrifield Farm north of Crediton into a secure dog-walking area.
It comes as part of a bid to “diversify” to “secure the future” of the farm, which has been hit by Covid and bird flu in recent years.
“Merrifield Farm relies heavily on processing chicken and ducks reared on this farm and other farms under contract,” planning documents say.
“Covid caused difficulties, but bird flu cut the business in half due to outbreaks nearby.
“Although we have largely recovered from this, we realise that the poultry business is very vulnerable to events beyond our control especially as bird flu is now endemic in the wild bird population.
“It has not escaped our notice that 250 houses are to [be built] across the valley within half a mile of our farm. No doubt many households will have a dog or two.
“There is excellent walking in nearby Shobrooke Park but here dogs must be kept under strict control and on a lead if sheep are present in the park.
“There is always the temptation to release dogs and hope they do not chase sheep, but this can lead to accidents.
“We feel that a secure dog walking field would provide a safe place to exercise, give the owner peace of mind and not cause problems to local sheep farmers.”
If Mid Devon District Council gives Mr Coleman the thumbs-up, the existing fence around the field would be raised up to a height of 1.8 metres. There are already hedges on all sides.
The existing gate off Haske Lane would be kept, and there would be space for four cars to park.
The area would be used for exercising dogs from 7am to 7pm seven days a week.
You can see the application on the Mid Devon District Council website under reference 24/01322/FULL.
Members of the public have until Tuesday, November 5 to comment on the proposals.
The council will decide whether to grant or refuse planning permission at a later date.
To see more public notices and planning applications, visit: publicnoticeportal.uk.