Objections Submitted Over Proposed Causeway Coast Dog Rescue Facility Near Coleraine

A proposed dog rescue facility near Coleraine has attracted a number of objections from nearby residents and landowners as the planning application is considered by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Causeway Coast Dog Rescue Ltd lodged the application last year for a purpose-built centre on lands adjacent to 85 Carthall Road, Coleraine.

The proposal includes dog kennels, training and exercise areas, grooming and veterinary facilities, office accommodation, staff areas, parking, landscaping and associated site works.

When the plans were first submitted, the applicant described the development as a “sustainable solution” aimed at supporting the care, rehabilitation and rehoming of abandoned or neglected dogs. The proposed centre would include 21 kennels, covered runs, grooming and surgery facilities, visitor areas and staff accommodation.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application stated the development would help address “a growing local need”, adding that many abandoned and neglected dogs currently rely on “overstretched shelters or face uncertain futures”.

The statement added: “This centre will provide them with a second chance — offering care, rehabilitation, and the opportunity to find loving homes.”

The proposed buildings are designed as single-storey structures in what was described as a traditional Northern Ireland agricultural style, with white render, stone and metal finishes. The plans also include solar panels and landscaping measures intended to integrate the development into the surrounding semi-rural area.

However, since the application was lodged, a number of objections have been submitted to planners.

Several nearby residents raised concerns around potential noise from barking dogs, traffic, and the impact on residential amenity.

Collective objections submitted to the council argued there was no detailed noise management plan included within the application and claimed nearby homes could be affected by noise carried across the surrounding countryside.

One objection stated residents feared their “peaceful environment” would be negatively affected if the development proceeds.

Another resident told the council their “peaceful ambience” and “quiet residential living space” could be impacted by frequent barking from rescue dogs housed at the site.

Additional objections submitted by Planning Pal Consultants on behalf of neighbouring landowners raised concerns over acoustic impacts, ecology, road safety and access arrangements.

The submission also questioned whether visibility splays and access arrangements relied on third-party owned land.

Separately, solicitors acting on behalf of Eastern Commercial Ltd objected to proposed outdoor lighting works linked to the laneway serving the site, stating their client would not consent to lighting infrastructure being installed on their property.

Despite the objections, the application has also received support.

Claire Sugden MLA submitted a letter backing the proposal, describing Causeway Coast Dog Rescue as a “well-established charity” carrying out “vital work” across the Causeway Coast and wider Northern Ireland.

In her submission, Ms Sugden highlighted growing demand for rescue services and the organisation’s work promoting animal welfare and responsible dog ownership.

The planning application remains under consideration by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.