By Isle of Wight Observer
An application to set up a secure dog walking and training facility, in Newchurch, has met with mixed reactions.
Plans have been submitted to the IW Council, by Jenny Ware of Seaview, to turn land next to West Meath Nursery on Winford Road, a two-acre field known as Maddie’s Meadow, into an enclosed and secure space available to rent by the hour to exercise and train dogs. There would also be obedience and behaviour training sessions run by experts.
In planning documents, Miss Ware says there is a “massive need” on the Island for such a facility for dogs that cannot ordinarily be let off the lead or the owner has a disability preventing off-lead exercise elsewhere. The site would have a mobile field shelter erected and be open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm in summer and from 8am to 5pm in winter.
A number of Newchurch residents have objected to the plans, citing worries which include increased traffic, noise from barking, shouting and whistles and the impact on livestock and pets. However, the scheme has its supporters, with people writing from across the Island and as far away as Reading to say that it would be a useful asset for dog owners.