THE owner of a puppy breeding kennels has said he is disappointed after a planning application to sell puppies bred off-site and extend its site was refused.

The retrospective application, made by Douglas Hall Kennels in Spenbrook Road, Newchurch-in-Pendle, included changing its use of dog breeding kennels to a mixed use of dog breeding, dog sales and dog petting, as well as expanding into its car park.

The application had been recommended for approval.

However, it was refused as the expansion would have an impact on the conservation area.

READ MORE: Independent review into handling of Douglas Hall Kennels licence handling

In a report sent to Barrowford and Western Parishes area committee, a spokesman said: “The lawful use of the site is dog breeding, which can include an ancillary element of sales of the puppies bred on site.

“However, the operation of the site predominantly involves the sale of puppies bred elsewhere.

“This is an unauthorised retail use.

“The operation also attracts visitors solely to pet the puppies, this is at a level that constitutes a material change of use,” the report added

“This application is for the retrospective change of use of the site to include retail sale of dogs and dog petting.

“The proposed development also includes the extension of the existing car park.”

A Pendle Council spokesman said enforcement action would also be taken against the owners of the site for “unlawful use” at the premises.

Following the decision, William Lancaster, the owner of the kennels, said: “It is disappointing to see the application was refused as it was recommended for approval.

“But the councillors have decided to protect the Area of Outstanding National Beauty.

“We will now carry on, it’s business as usual.”

When asked about the enforcement action, Mr Lancaster said: “We will see what comes of it.”

Several objections were raised about puppy welfare by animal rights campaigners, including concerns in relation to puppy sales, petting and the existing operation of the business.

Campaigners also objected on the grounds that the site does not have adequate space to allow for such an increase in dogs.

Mr Lancaster said the accusations had been “taken out of context” and the business was a fully-licensed breeders that is “passionate about animals and animal welfare.”

Corporate director at Pendle Council, Philip Mousdale, said earlier the council had had over 30 complaints in respect of the Douglas Hall Kennels.