A NEW dog day care and training centre could soon be coming to the Three Towns - if plans gain approval.

The owners of Greenhead Bark Park in Stevenston, next to Ardeer Golf Club, have submitted proposals to North Ayrshire Council to expand their facility.

The site currently offers a two-acre secure dog run where pets can play off lead in a fun and safe environment, and management of the exercise area was taken on by applicant Cameron Gillespie and his wife in July 2020.

In a supporting statement lodged with the expansion plans, Mr Gillespie said the proposals would provide "a positive social impact to the local community".

The document said: "There is a high demand for dog day care locally and most establishments are at maximum capacity, with waiting lists and are unable to take on new clients.

READ MORE: Saltcoats salon trashed after break-in as businesses rally round to help

"Given that we are already operating an existing secure dog exercise area on the same location, we feel we are well equipped to provide this service – offering a caring environment with adequate outdoor space for exercise and training as well as indoor space to create opportunities for mental and sensory stimulation."

If the plans get the go-ahead, modular buildings taken from another site will be installed and renovated on the Greenhead Holding land, with dog day care services operating Monday-Friday within them.

The supporting statement added: "During evenings and weekends, it is our intention to utilise the same building to offer dog training classes and workshops.

"This will allow us to provide services that are in demand and offers an indoor alternative where the weather does not support an outdoor class in the field.

"In the first instance it is not our intention to employ any staff while this portion of the business is being established. However, as demand increases, we hope to be able to create employment opportunities locally."