Appeal against dog-walking field rejection

The council rejected the plans for the dog-walking area because it is on green belt land

Developers behind plans for a bookable dog-walking area have said they will appeal against a council decision to reject the scheme.

Earlier this month Sunderland City Council blocked an application to convert agricultural land in the Penshaw area to be used by dog owners.

Evolve Planning and Design, the agent acting on behalf of the anonymous developer, said its client planned to submit an appeal.

The local authority rejected the plans because they would be an "inappropriate development" on green belt land.

The agent's director Stuart Wells said: "The proposal would provide an exclusive, safe and secure space for dog owners to exercise their dogs in an attractive setting."

Under the plans, pet owners would have been able to book the field for exercising their pets for up to 60 minutes per session.

In planning documents, the applicant said it would provide a facility "for those with mobility issues or young children" as well as being a safe space for anxious dogs or those with behavioural issues.

Mr Wells also added that he believed the proposals were "appropriate in the green belt".