A PLANNING application to create a dedicated dog-walking field in Chudleigh has been submitted to Teignbridge District Council (TDC).

The application - reference 25/01872/FUL - is seeking permission to change land off Parr’s Lane from an agricultural field to a secure, private dog walking field, which will be operated as a business.

The proposal aims to ‘provide the community within Chudleigh and the surrounding areas with a facility that will be well managed and has little to no impact on the environment’, the planning statement for 25/01872/FUL says.

A target date of January 23, 2026 has been given for a decision on the application.

‘The area is aimed at being a safe, enclosed facility for dog exercise, which requires minimal development from the current use and is also reversible in nature’, the planning statement says.

‘All changes and use of the area/field will be sensitive to the surroundings and is intended to integrate seamlessly into its rural surroundings’, the statement adds.

The site comprises around 0.3 hectares of gently sloping pastureland off Parr’s Lane, on the outskirts of Chudleigh; it is currently in agricultural use and bounded by mature hedgerows and post-and-wire fencing.

The proposal involves the change of use of the field to a secure dog walking area, which will be available for hire on a pre-booked basis.

The site will operate by appointment only, with only one customer per slot and a 15 minute gap between each time slot to ensure that there is no queuing on the road, but also so that customers have ample time to get in and out of the site.

A two metre, rustic style fence will be installed, replacing the existing fencing that encloses the site, with provision for a small, hard-standard parking area.

According to the planning statement, the proposed facility will deliver several benefits:

• Encourages regular outdoor activity and supports mental health through safe access to the countryside;

• Provides a secure, enclosed space to train and exercise dogs, reducing risks to livestock, wildlife and members of the general public that may be driving by. Dogs with poor recall will be secure instead of potentially running out in front of moving vehicles;

• Offers a safe environment for elderly, disabled, or anxious owners who may find public spaces unsuitable;

• Attracts visitors to Chudleigh, supporting local cafés, shops, and services. Locals may also be able to access the site for a reduced rate subject to approval from the site owner.