A NEW dog walking field could help ensure the continued sustainability of a farming business near Maldon into the future.
A family farm business in Little Totham has revealed plans to change the use of agricultural meadow land to a fenced field for dog walking to the west of Wash Lane on Chapel Farm.
The new use would involve customers booking hourly sessions using an online booking system.
Only customers who make a prior booking would be able to use the dog walking field.
Dogs are also allowed within Chigborough Lakes Nature Reserve, to the west of the site, but under effective control or on a lead.
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A statement included with the plans says: "The farm business is pursuing ways to maintain its viability and seeks to diversify income streams away from direct agricultural produce.
"The applicants have experienced their worst harvest in 40 years and this volatile farming income needs underpinning to ensure the continued sustainability of the farming business into the future."
The use of the field won't be subject to fluctuating market costs so the owners hope it will result in a steady income.
Its character and appearance of the field would remain the same.
The statement adds: "The use also benefits the wide public, it represents a provision of a community service for dog exercising as well as the promotion of the health and wellbeing exercise for local residents and the community."
Maldon District Council will rule on the application.
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