A KENNEL owner has his sights set on opening a dog rescue facility if plans are given the green light by councillors.

Paul Atkinson, owner of Sweetwell Farm in Briercliffe, plans to expand his kennel facilities as well as creating a new area for 20 extra kennels.

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If approved, the plans would see an existing bank of kennels relocated to enable an outdoor exercise run to be constructed.

Additionally, the application also includes the change of use of an area in an agricultural building that is used as a temporary boarding facility, to become permanent.

The design and access statement submitted to Burnley Council reads: “Over a number of years, pressure on farm business returns has seen the diversification into a canine boarding kennels and cattery.

“The dedication and high quality care which is provided at Sweetwell Kennels has resulted in a number of councils and canine charities contracting the business to provide rescue facilities for animals.”

Retained kennels at the farm would need to be isolated from the regular facilities to ensure there is no risk of disease transfer.

So a temporary small bank of kennels have been provided.

The report continued: “The proposed development will include the change of use of the area within the building for permanent kennelling and the construction of a new lean-to building to provide an exercise run area, which will be linked to the agricultural building by guillotine doors.”

The existing farm dog kennels will be relocated alongside a farm barn.

The application states the proposed development will result in additional vehicles.

“Boarding animals has provided a secure future for the applicant and his family whilst maintaining an important role in managing the countryside.

“The provision of rescue dog accommodation for councils and canine charities provides a regular income to the business which is critical.

“The rescue boarding will be run to the same exact standards and will be monitored by Burnley Council Environmental Health Officers.”

The application is due to be considered at a meeting of Burnley Council’s Development Control Committee in coming weeks.