Plans for new dog walking field in Swanton Morley approved

Proposals approved by Breckland Council will see the development of an agricultural field at Elsing Road in Swanton Morley, near Dereham. 

The field will be enclosed by two-metre-high fencing and will have a small car park and sheltered seating area for visitors. 

Roger Atterwill, Swanton Morley councillor, said: "The village needs to expand its facilities for all residents. Although it has a number of footpaths available for dog walkers, many of these are provided by way of a rolling short-term agreement with a local landowner.

"There is no guarantee that these will be available in perpetuity. This new facility will provide dog owners with another option to exercise their dogs."

Swanton Morley, near Dereham (Image: Angela Sharpe)READ MORE: Plans for major development of more than 100 homes in village dropped at last minute

The proposals were welcomed by local people who said the development of the field was an "excellent idea" and would be a "great asset to the village".

Breckland Council has approved the change of use of the land to a dog walking and exercise area, which will be open to the public between 6am and 9pm.