A DOG groomer could open in Andover town centre as Test Valley Borough Council has recommended that the plans be approved.
Proposals to turn a nail salon into a new branch of a dog grooming parlour, Barks ‘N’ Bubbles, in Winchester Street were submitted in December.
However, owners of a cat cafe located next door, called Andover Catfe, objected to the plans due to fears that ‘agitated dogs making a lot of noise’ could disturb the felines.
READ MORE: Plans for more than 100 new homes supported by Andover Town Council
The objection read: “We’re not dog haters & can appreciate a small business taking on an empty unit, but to open this right next to a cat cafe will potentially end us when we are currently bringing people from outside the town into Andover.”
It was one of only three objections received for the plans, with more than 40 residents writing to Test Valley Borough Council to express support for the proposals.
In support, residents said opening the dog grooming salon would increase business, diversity and interest in the town centre as well as increase footfall.
Amber Cooper, owner of Barks ‘N’ Bubbles, previously told the Advertiser she understood the concerns raised but that she would take steps to ‘minimise noise wherever I can’.
She concluded: “Furthermore, I have known my customers for many years, all of which are responsible owners who will be sure to pick up after their dogs should they mess outside.”
The proposals are recommended for approval by officers at a Northern Area Planning Committee meeting on February 20.
Officers concluded that the plans should be approved ‘in the interests of the vitality of the town centre and the need to adapt to changes in shopping trends’.
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