Retrospective approval is set to be given for dog breeding kennels at Ashentree Farm in Polnessan.

The farm houses 42 dogs at a minimum, with 29 breeding bitches, five stud dogs, four retired dogs and four non breeding working gun-dogs, plus puppies.

The proprietors wish to breed Labrador, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, and miniature poodles. In total there will 13 separate kennels at the farm.

There were 219 official objections lodged to East Ayrshire Council regarding the proposals.

The majority (137) were concerned with animal welfare.

Council officers admitted there were public concerns, but said they could only determine an application on planning merits. Animal welfare was for environmental health and licensing to enforce.