HELLIFIELD farmers who have already diversified into a successful kennels business are proposing to turn part of their land into a dog exercise area.

The owners of High Ground Farm, Adrian and Gemma Beresford, have applied to North Yorkshire Council to use a small part of their 'less productive' land close to the kennels for the new facility.

A planning statement submitted with the application says the Beresford's High Gro Kennels was established in 2017 and has run alongside the long established agricultural operations without any conflict or problem.

It states: "Customers are constantly asking if there is a dog walking area in the vicinity and the applicants have had to advise that there is not. Considering the demand that there appears to be they are now proposing to offer that service themselves."

The dog walking field will be accessed off an existing farm track, and will be secured by a 1.8m high fence. Only one person at a time will be able to use the facility.

"Individuals can bring their dogs and allow them to have the freedom to securely run around the field allowing the owner to enjoy time with their dog(s) without the worry of any potential danger to farm animals or any other individual or animal," it is stated.