The field where dog owners have to book slots to walk their pets

A dog walking field where people book slots to exercise their pets could be created in Mossley.

The field, between Quick Road and Strawberry lane, would be specially designed to ‘provide an attractive, safe and secure environment’ for dog walkers.

The site would be fenced off and accessed through a gate secured with a keypad.

Customers who book a slot to use the field would be supplied with a security pin code to use the facility.

The applicant, named as Mr Kenny, wants to create this option for pet owners who have dogs with poor recall or dogs that are nervous or too boisterous around other animals. Mr Kenny added this could provide a safe haven amidst a number of dog attacks in public parks. 

Planning papers read: “The number of incidents involving irresponsible owners with uncontrolled dogs attacking other innocent dogs in public parks and the wider environment has escalated in recent years resulting in deaths and serious injuries and associated significant distress to the dogs and their owners. 

“This is a serious concern for many dog owners who love their pets and treat them like members of the family. Therefore, having a safe and secure exercise facility to use will provide the necessary comfort and peace of mind.”

Biodegradable bags for picking up dog waste would be provided to customers and a waste management plan has been created to deal with any mess not picked up by owners. Customers would be given 45 minute slots with only four walkers allowed on the field at one time.

A small gravel parking area for four large vehicles would be created, if plans are approved by Tameside Council. The field is expected to be open during daylight hours and close when it goes dark.