FARMLAND at West Marton can be used as a dog walking field after being given the go-ahead by North Yorkshire Council.

It is the second piece of agricultural land in the village to be turned into mixed agricultural and amenity use, for the exercising and training of dogs.

The just more than two acre site, off Gledstone Road, is close to Marton Meadow dog walking field, operated by the same applicants behind the second, larger scheme.

It will include a small car park, fencing and gates and will be in operation between 7am and 8pm during May to September and daylight hours during October to April.

Permission was given by planning officers with delegated powers.

A officers report states the development is a diversification of the farm business, Pasture Farm, comprising 250 acres of meadow and pasture.

"The mixed use nature of this proposal will allow for the continued use of the field for agricultural purposes in the future. In generating a new income stream, it is accepted that the proposed facility provides a means to use the farmland in a different way to support the farm business.

"The introduction of a dog exercise and training facility also represents a diversification of the wider rural economy. The retention of the agricultural use would enable the field to revert to this use in response to the demands of the farm enterprise if required."