PLANS to turn a piece of farmland in Silverton into a dog-walking field have been met with almost universal praise.

Georgina Hunter-Marsden wants to use the land behind the village’s primary school, which was last used for grazing ponies, to allow the “exercise of dogs in a safe and secure environment”.

The field would have 1.9-metre-high fences erected inside the boundary hedges. It would be used by one customer with “usually” one or two dogs at a time, planning documents say.

There would be parking space for one car and it is anticipated most users would walk to the site. Operating hours would be 6am to 10pm.

As many as 16 people have written to Mid Devon District Council in support of the plans. One person has objected. Silverton Parish Council has backed the idea.

“I fully support the proposal for a dedicated green space for dogs within the village,” said Maria Sowden.

“There is a clear need for an accessible area where residents can exercise their dogs close to home. Owners are often forced to leave the village and travel by car to places such as Killerton.

“It also creates difficulties for residents without access to a car or those with limited mobility, who have very few practical options for exercising their dogs properly.”

Gwen Gretenkort-Johnson added: “As a qualified dog behaviourist, I understand first-hand the importance of providing dogs with appropriate opportunities for off-lead exercise, not only for their physical health and wellbeing but also for their emotional and behavioural welfare.”

Objecting, Charles Gordon said: “If approved, this proposal will result in the loss of agricultural land for agricultural purposes.

“It is increasingly difficult for would-be entrants to the industry to gain access to agricultural land given the high levels of rent and sale prices generated for this essential resource.

“This premium is increasingly difficult as more and more agricultural land is used for other purposes.

“In addition, Roach Lane is in a poor state of repair and is unsuitable for increased traffic, particularly commercial vehicles required to deliver materials to the site and to remove refuse.

“The lane provides access to a private lane leading to three properties and is required, particularly in bad weather to ensure continued access to those.”

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

You can see the application on Mid Devon District Council’s website under reference 26/01041/FULL.