New kennel facilities in the North of the Island can be built, says DLGE Minister John Rimington.

He upheld a planning committee decision to grant permission for the development at Glen Duff House in Ramsey, despite objections from neighbours.

The application would see 12 kennels built to house up to 24 dogs, although only dogs from the same family would be kept together.

Planning Inspector Michael Hurley said claims neighbours would suffer noise nuisance form barking were unfounded as the nearest homes were half a kilometre away.

He added the proposed building would be screened by vegetation, and the kennels would help meet demand for such facilities.

Mr Rimington said he agreed with the inspector’s findings, and overturned the appeal – giving the green light for the business.