Proposals for dogwalking field

Plans have been drawn up to transform a former public playpark into a commercial dog walking field.

A planning application has been submitted to South Ayrshire Council and relates to an area of land in Minishant.

The applicant, Mrs Sarah Tyson, hopes to get the green light on proposals for a change of use on land to the rear of 1-10 Mure Place.

Agents Edesign Architecture and Planning said: “Currently, residents and others use the park as a dog walking park. The intention is to provide a safer, better managed environment for this with an online booking system.”

There would also be “containment,” “waste control” and “park rules” aimed at protecting the environment.

And to ensure the privacy of neighbouring properties, new fencing, gates and screening is also proposed.

If granted, the venture would see dog owners book one-hour slots (six dogs maximum) to utilise the 6,470 sq. m park via an online portal. They would then be given an access code which would change periodically.

Families could use the area for picnicking while their dogs play safely around them.

Two barrels will be provided that contain fresh filtered rainwater and two water bowls. Two picnic benches will be provided for customer use.

The agent said: “It would give dog owners peace of mind on their walk knowing their pet is safe to play and be free without encroaching on farmers land, with vulnerable livestock. The paddock can also be used as a training facility for dogs.”

The site would operate during daylight hours (summer 8am to 8pm and winter 8am to 4pm).

The entry cost has not been disclosed. The application also states that separate bins for general waste and dog waste will be provided onsite and emptied on a weekly basis or when the bin is full.

The owner intends to have the grass “cut regularly” and “maintained to a good standard.”

The agent said: “The new park will be supportive of a local dog walking business to provide a safe, managed facility. The applicant runs a small business ‘Tyson Treks’, walking dogs for which currently must rent a piece of land for the purpose. This would allow the applicant space to walk dogs (once per day) to maintain her business.

“This one visit per day would also be the time where the applicant would check on the park and ensure whether bins would require emptying.”

In summary, the agents added: “The proposals are aimed to improve an otherwise unkept former playpark which is informally currently used in an uncontrolled manner for walking dogs.”