Sunderland stables, kennels and cattery business bids to improve facilities

A Sunderland-based stables, kennels and cattery business has lodged a bid for new and improved facilities.

The city council’s planning department has received an application for Stoneygate Stables, Kennels and Cattery, off Burdon Lane, near Doxford International Business Park.

The business is seeking permission for the demolition of four existing stable blocks and the erection of a new kennel block.

A planning statement submitted to council officials confirms the proposed single-storey, timber-clad building would include 22 kennels which could “accommodate a maximum of 44 dogs” as well as incorporating “renewable technologies”.

Those behind the scheme added the “continued growth of the business is restricted by limited dog boarding capacity and an outdated layout of the existing kennel block”.

It was noted that as a result of the “limited provision of boarding kennels” there is “significant demand for the service offered” within the city.

Applicants added that the existing kennel block at Stoneygate Stables, Kennels and Cattery requires “significant refurbishment” to ensure “new licensing requirements and customer expectations are met”.

To undertake this, it was noted that “dog boarding would need to be suspended on site for at least six months”.

Applicants said the construction of a new kennel block, in advance of the refurbishment, aims to “allow the business to continue whilst the works are undertaken to the existing kennel block”.

A decision on the planning application is expected following a council consultation exercise.

For more information on the plan, or to track its progress, visit Sunderland City Council’s planning portal website and search for reference 26/00886/FUL.