Green light for plans to convert historic farm in Peterborough into dog exercise area and schools camp site
Plans to use former farm land in Peterborough for an educational camp site and dog exercise area have been given the go ahead.
The proposals have been drawn up by the Nene Park Trust and sought permission for a change of use from a riding school at the disused Grade II listed farm at Orton Wistow to provide a dog exercise field plus seasonal camping for schools and registered groups and associated educational
The proposals included the construction of a temporary toilet block, bin and cycle storage, and improvements to the site access.
Approval for the plans was granted by Peterborough City Council on November 14.
In a report, planning officers stated: “The proposal results in less than substantial harm to the setting of listed buildings, mitigated by design changes and the temporary nature of the toilet block.
“These harms must be weighed against the public benefits, which include the provision of new leisure and recreational facilities for schools and community groups supporting healthy lifestyles and social interaction.
The report also stated that the enhancement of the visitor offer at Ferry Meadows and the Nene Valley supported tourism and the rural economy.
Planners were also told there had been 28 responses to a consultation about the trust’s plans and that of these, 27 had been objections.
The objections focused on concerns over likely noise from camping and the dog field, a feared lack of on-site management and enforcement, potential trespass and anti-social behaviour from site users as well as BBQ smoke and odours affecting nearby residential amenities.
There were also concerns over highway safety and parking and the impact on nearby wildlife and trees.
A letter in favour of the development expressed support for a safe dog walking space for families.
The officers’ report concludes: “The proposed development does not result in any material harm to the character or appearance of the locality, nor does it adversely affect the amenity of nearby residents nor highway safety and provides adequate parking provision.”
The trust has been approached for a response.