Claim drivers playing 'a game of faith and luck' after new wall installed near secure dog field

A Nottinghamshire business owner has been left fearing for the safety of her customers after a new wall hindered the visibility of motorists trying to enter and exit the premises. Wendy Bigley is the owner of the Paws and Play Paddock in Dunham, which is a secure dog exercise field near Tuxford.

She started the business in September 2017 which has become very popular over the years, but this has been impacted by a front boundary wall at a recently built neighbouring property. The wall is blocking visibility for people visiting and leaving her business, which has led to customers feeling unsafe and not wanting to come back.

Wendy explained: "The position and height of this wall are causing dangerous visibility issues for us and our clients visiting the paws and play paddock. Exiting the driveway is now a game of faith and luck hoping there are no vehicles or pedestrians approaching from the left as you creep out slowly onto the road.

"Our client numbers have dropped due to the difficulties presented with this wall blocking visibility." She claims: "The wall being built at that height poking forward of the clear boundary lines of the properties either side shows a distinct lack of consideration for those using the driveway at Trent farm, pedestrians that use the footpath crossing Trent farms driveway and for vehicles driving down the road, sometimes at some speed, unaware of the possible danger."

Construction of the wall began in June 2024 and was completed a few weeks later. According to planning documents, the applicant had permission for a one-metre-high feather edge-boarded fence and has since submitted a retrospective planning application for the brick wall.

However, a number of public comments have been made on the application to express concern. One comment states: "The placement of the wall blocks the view of oncoming traffic.

"I have to inch out and look around the wall which is a safety hazard for pedestrians and oncoming traffic. If it was in line with the hedge next of the neighbouring property it would give a better/safer aspect."

Another wrote: "I take my dog to the paws n play paddock adjacent to this site. You are taking your life in your hands when leaving the premises as you cannot see any traffic coming down or pedestrians.

"Even worse when two large work vans are parked there. It's very dangerous and one day there will be a collision there."

Nottinghamshire Live attempted to contact the owner of the property. However, a public comment on the application has been made by the individual which states: "The wall with visibility gaps is a much better idea than a close boarded fence. The obstruction didn't seem to be an issue when there was a 8/9ft overgrown hedge in is place before.

"The position of the wall is in the correct place as instructed by Highways North (Bassetlaw) Assistant District Highways manager." A later update added: "We think this is a much better idea than the feather edge timber fence which will be the same height. (Planning permission is already granted for a fence)

"The wall with gaps in between for railings and the larger gate opening will make visibility much clearer for both pedestrians and road users. The driveway gradient increases 700mm up towards the new property which will also help with visibility.

"The wall is also more aesthetically pleasing than a fence and will also have a longer life span."