A plan for a new, secure dog walking field in Worcester has been put forward.

The application has been made on behalf of R H Philips & Co, who operate an existing agricultural business based at Church Farm, Cornmeadow Lane, Claines.

The business, which occupies 600 acres of land north of Claines Lane, has put forward the plans for the exclusive field as part of 'restructuring' of its model.

An statement included in the application said: "Due to a multitude of current constraints within the agricultural sector, not least the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit, farmers have an essential and relatively urgent need to diversify in order to remain sustainable and financially viable.

"The applicants are proposing to change the use of an existing block of grassland to form a secure dog walking facility.

"Dog walking facilities such as this are becoming ever more popular throughout the UK.

"Secure dog walking fields offer visitors exclusive use of the fields, giving their dogs’ the freedom to run off the lead in a safe, secure environment.

"Such schemes are suitable for all types of dogs, but they are particularly useful for nervous or reactive dogs.

"The fields have a double gated handling area to keep entry safe. Such a facility is also an excellent place for training.

"The proposal is considered to represent a sustainable and suitable form of farm diversification. The proposal will offer a diversified and unsubsidised source of income for the existing rural enterprise."

A similar facility currently exists at Top Barn Farm, which offers a two acre enclosed field dubbed the 'Pawticularly Secure Exercise Field'.

In recent years, R H Philips & Co successfully diversified into pig production, with two units housing 1950 finishing pigs being approved at Daniels Farm.

A further application for the change of use of existing cattle sheds to form storage units at Daniels Farm is currently being considered by the Local Planning Authority.

This proposal would see eight car parking spaces built at the site, allowing for dog walkers to park up and take their pooches for a stroll.

The full application for the 2.4 acre prospective development can be viewed on Worcester City Council's website.

The application number is 21/01119/FUL. Public consultation ends of January 16, 2022.