BarkRun Planning Permission Update

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the imminent closure of BarkRun, at the end of August. You may continue with bookings up to and including the 29th of August 2023. As some of you may already be aware, we have recently faced a significant setback in our efforts to secure planning permission for the change of use of the land. Despite our unwavering commitment and dedication, the local authorities and planning inspectorate have now denied our application and upheld the enforcement notice on the site, leaving us with no choice but to suspend our operations at this location from the above date.

For over 12 months, BarkRun has been an integral part of this vibrant dog-walking community. We have taken immense pride in providing a safe and secure place for locals to come and exercise their dogs in the comfort of an enclosed space. We have built long-lasting relationships with many of you and we are deeply grateful for the support and trust you have shown us throughout this journey.

Our team has invested substantial time, resources, and effort in trying to meet the requirements for planning permission. We firmly believe that our business contributes positively to the local community, with no measurable negative impact on the immediate locals. Whilst they may rejoice at this latest development in the anticipation that they may resume their trespassing across the field, they will soon realise that they are sadly mistaken. Whilst we do respect that everyone is entitled to their viewpoint, the small group who have led a campaign to stop us from providing this facility have gone beyond the point of being reasonable. It is also ironic that this same group who have stated our facility is inappropriate use of the land and creates significant noise from dogs barking, at the same time do not consider that trespassing, damaging fences, leaving dog waste and exercising their dogs on our land will cause any harm or disturbance to anyone. 

We will continue to make every effort to address any concerns raised during the planning process and demonstrate our commitment to being responsible business owners. This sad news comes the same week that the local authorities have recommended for approval the demolition of Oakwood nurseries, also located within the greenbelt of Knutsford, to allow the building of 10 houses; commenting ‘The site would provide some social benefits to the area.’

While we will be forced to close our bookings at this location, we want to assure you that this is not the end for BarkRun. Our resolve to serve you remains stronger than ever. We are actively exploring all available avenues and will fight tirelessly to explore alternative solutions. 

In the meantime, we would like to express our profound gratitude to our loyal customers and the positive members of the community for your continued support and understanding during this challenging time. Your messages of encouragement and belief in our cause have been a driving force in our determination to persevere.

Sincerely,

Charlotte & The BarkRun Team