A PLAN to create German Shepherd dog breeding kennels and nine dog runs in a small village has been approved, despite objections.

Stockton Borough Council's planning officers had recommended the planning committee approve a retrospective application to to extend an existing building and convert stables at Springfield Stud on Wynyard Road in Thorpe Thewles, north of Stockton.

Grindon Parish Council and eight members of the public objected arguing that the breeding kennels will be noisy and disturb cats at a long-established nearby cattery while partly spoiling a rural area with a nature reserve and grade listed buildings.

However, the council's planning committee approved the application after hearing there was also facilities for stables on the site and that the kennels will be high quality - helping to prevent the use of low-grade 'puppy farms' from abroad where standards are lower. A vet had said that the cats should not be disturbed by the presence of the kennels.

The site is near the junction with the A177 by-bass and the retrospective plan is for a single story extension to provide the kennels and dog runs.

The owners will also convert a stables into managers' accommodation and change the use of another building to form five private stables. There will be a dog isolation unit and paved 'hardstanding' area as well as eight breeding kennels and car parking.

At the committee meeting in Stockton Town Hall today (Wednesday, May 4), Alan Fletcher spoke against the application on behalf of Grindon Parish Council, saying there was widespread opposition in the village and concerns over increased traffic.

The current application breaks both national and local planning policy and a similar application has been rejected," he added.

Barbara Broadbent, wife of the applicant, explained that a German Shepherd was to be imported from Germany and would be the only one of its line in the UK.

The couple would employ someone full time and take on an apprentice and all health and wellbeing guidelines would be met.

She said: "We love the breed. It is our absolute passion. We want potential champion dogs to show and excellent puppies to sell. The facilities are five star."

Cllr Phil Dennis spoke jokingly to say the German Shepherd with the responsibility of propagating an entire line in the UK was "going to be a lucky dog." More seriously other councillors spoke to condemn low grade "puppy farms" which have been closed across the country but which still exist abroad. They expressed the hope that high class establishments like the one in Thorpe Thewles would help destroy the trade.

The plan was approved by the entire committee with one abstention.