A GARNOCK Valley business owner has unveiled plans to create a play area for dogs at  a Kilbirnie farm.

Stuart Raybould has submitted an application to North Ayrshire Council for permission to expand his existing dog-walking business.

He plans to convert an agricultural building at Mossend Farm into one "for commercial use" - namely a 'play area' for a dog day care business.

A supporting statement lodged with the application says: "The development is to create a dog day-care provision, using an unused barn on our property.

"The business owner plans to create a fun area for the dogs to run around, play and sleep throughout the day."

Mr Raybould himself added: "I am the owner of Garnock Valley Dog Walking and Pet Services.

"I have been running the business for five years now and I’m looking to expand with the opportunity to lease a vacant area at Mossend farm.

"I am hoping to build up to around 12 dogs daily for day-care, and offer one hour play sessions in the spaces.

"This will provide a safe environment for the dogs to enjoy off lead activities in the fully enclosed safe and secure areas.

"I will be hoping to employ one or two members of staff as the business grows."

Document submitted to the local authority as part of the application state that the business will operate from 7am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Under the plans, only the interior of the barn building will be altered, with no changes planned to the outside.

 

The application documents also state: "The business will bring minimal traffic to the site as the business owner intends to transport the majority of the dogs to the site via his own vehicle."

The application was brought to North Ayrshire Council at the end of last month, and is currently pending cinsideration.

The application form and accompanying documents can be viewed in full via the council's online planning portal, searching for reference 23/00224/AN.