Plans have been put forward for a “secure dog-walking paddock” at a Herefordshire farm.

The application (number 241837) by Mr A Lilwall of Aconbury Court Farm south of Hereford seeks permission to turn a two-acre field into a dog-walking area with field shelter and three parking spaces.

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Currently a horse paddock, it would have a new 1.8-metre deer fence around it, though the existing hedgerow would remain.

This “would allow users to have their dog(s) off lead during a timed session with no concern of livestock worrying or poor recall”, a statement with the application says.

There would be a “basic” wooden shelter with a bench, but no toilet, for dog walkers.

It would be in use between 6am and 9pm in summer, and between 8am and 5pm in winter. Individuals and groups would book 50-minute slots via an online system.

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The new facility “would not be open for drop-ins, so there should be no mixing of dogs between parties which should mitigate barking”, the application explains.

There would be designated bins for dog waste which would be collected by arrangement with Herefordshire Council.

Woodlands around the farm are already popular with dog walkers, so there would not be a net increase in traffic along the narrow rural roads, the application adds.

Comments on it can be made until September 6.