Plans to start a farrier business at a Claverdon farm have been unanimously backed by councillors despite objections from neighbours.

Multiple objections had been made to a planning application to repurpose existing stables and farm buildings at Forge Farm on Pinley Lane.

Residents has raised concerns about traffic, the effect on the green belt and the impact on the local rural character.

And whilst a previous application, refused in February 2022, included a 'doggy day care' business and plans to construct new buildings, the council said the fresh application was more suitable use of the green belt.

Speaking at this week's Warwick District Council planning meeting Cllr David Norris said: “As Terry Morris would say, we have to consider what has been put in front of us to make a view and judgement.

"And my view is to grant permission based on the officers’ recommendations.”

An officers report said: "As the change of use represents the re-use of existing buildings, it is not considered to have a detrimental impact on landscape or the character of the area."

It added: "The buildings are of permanent and substantial construction; are suitable for re-use; no alterations to the building are required; the development would respect the special qualities of any nearby buildings; there would be no changes externally or internally as a result of the change of use."

The farm already treats laminitic horses and provides remedial shoeing. Two horses are currently kept in the stables.

"The provision of a farrier business is considered to be a traditional rural enterprise," the council report added.

"The associated activities, such as horses being exercised within the adjoining paddocks would preserve openness and do not conflict with the purposes of including land within the green belt.

"The use does attract some additional traffic movements. However, in comparison to the lawful use as a livery, this is unlikely to materially impact on the green belt."

With councillors unanimously voting in favour of the plans, Cllr James Kennedy added: “I am pleased to see that we have high quality stabling for horses as there has been issues with previous applications where we have been told that building is too high for horses - here we have some good buildings."