An “exhilarating” training track for Huskies could be coming to Pendle.
Proposals for an off-lead dog area and a circular trail were set to be discussed by councillors at Pendle Council’s Barrowford and Western Parishes Committee meeting last night.
The plans, put forward by Sibes and Sled Dogs Husky Welfare, is for land off Greenfield Road.
According to co-owner of the soon-to-be charity John Duxbury the experience would be the “first of its kind in Lancashire”, and would help drive up funds to build £500,000 kennels.
The off-lead area would be secured off with 6.5ft fencing, and the trail would provide an opportunity for owners to ride rigs or scooters pulled by their Husky at speeds exceeding 25mph. The full course would cover just over 1,000m.
Mr Duxbury (54), of Brentwood Road, Nelson, who owns three Huskies himself, said: “I can’t see why it won’t be passed - there is nothing down there that is going to get in the way.
“It would mean a lot to the area and would be the first of its kind.
“It would put us on the map in the husky world, and to say that is a huge thing.
“It will be like an Alice In Wonderland trail, as it will be under undergrowth,
“We don’t want to take it out of the area. If we open up for an event, it would mean caravan sites would fill up and it would create job opportunities.”
The area would be open between 9am and 4pm, but not used continuously, and it is expected there would be between eight and 10 dogs per visit.
If given the green light, Mr Duxbury would need to apply for planning permission for fencing.
The former builder, who gave up his job to launch the welfare two years ago, has also reassured critics that once dogs are running about noise will be minimal as huskies do not tend to bark much.
Sibes and Sled Dogs Husky Rescue has been going from strength to strength since it launched in 2012.
It has so far rehomed around 150 dogs, and has 3,690 members from all across the globe.
There is an admin team of around 12, approximately 500 volunteers, and various sponsors including The Alma Inn, XCLR Vehicle Management and Pets at Home.
Walks are held every Sunday in Burnley, Nelson, Warrington and Bolton.
Mr Duxbury added: “It has been very rewarding. At one time you couldn’t get me out of bed at 7am, and now I am up at 5-30am. We have a very talented team, and I couldn’t do it on my own.”
For more information or to get involved visit www.facebook.com/SASDHuskyRescue
