We know that many local people will be disappointed at the loss of Crofters Kennels and Rescue Centre, as the Echo reports below. As far as we are aware, this isn’t any part of a council ‘plan’ – the landowner has submitted an application for 2 dwellings, so the council has to process it and decide whether to pass it or refuse it.
“A DOG rescue centre is being forced to close its doors and move out of the area after 17 years of helping animals in the community.
Crofters Kennels and Rescue Centre, in Beke Hall Chase, Rayleigh, has been rescuing and rehoming dogs and other animals, as well as offering families a safe and trusted place to leave their pets while they go away.
But the landlords who lease the premises to the centre have now asked Gill Lewis, owner of Crofters, to vacate the buildings so they can be transformed into two homes, according to an application submitted to Rochford District Council.
Mrs Lewis, 54, who has also lived on site with her family for 18 years, said: “It is the end of our lease and we did know this was coming, but it is still very difficult to deal with.
“We were hopeful we might be able to extend the lease but the owners want it back.
“Unfortunately, because we haven’t been able to find other suitable premises, we’re going to have to relocate to Manningtree.
“It will be very sad to leave the community because we’ve been here for so long.
“It has been lovely living here as it is our family home where our kids grew up, making it harder and if we ever find land here we will move back.”
Hundreds of people have taken to the kennel’s Facebook page to wish Gill and her team the best of luck when they move…..”
The full article is here.