A DOG hotel could be built catering for the pets of guests at one of the Ribble Valley’s most prestigious venues.

The Duchy of Lancaster – the Queen’s private estate – is planning to develop redundant farm buildings in the picturesque village of Dunsop Bridge.

And the existing piggery at Higher Whitewell Farm could be transformed into a small ‘hotel for dogs’, serving the pets of guests at the nearby Inn at Whitewell.

The 820-square metre development could also include a cafe, farm shop, health spa, and 69 parking spaces.

The farm shop and cafe would be built in an existing two-storey barn, and another retail unit could be created in a cart shed.

A report outlining the proposals stated: “The hotel for dogs is designed to run in conjunction with the Inn at Whitewell to allow residents to leave dogs overnight at Higher Whitewell in a purpose-built facility.

“The development is intended to be complementary to the Inn at Whitewell, and its facilities will be available to hotel guests.”

Fees for luxury kennels can vary from £20 to £30, and extras can include treats and toys, fun swims, walks, and even canine hydrotherapy.

The dog hotel would be 30square metres, but it has not been confirmed how many dogs will be able to board at once.

Charles Bowman, manager at the Inn at Whitewell, said: “I’m sure it will be very nice.

“We do have many guests with pets that come here.”

The idea was first mooted in 2007 when the Duchy was given the green light by planning chiefs at Ribble Valley Borough Council.

However, work was halted due to the economic crisis.

Established more than 700 years ago, the Duchy of Lancaster is a body created under Charter, covering 18,700 hectares across England and Wales.

It is completely self-financing and does not rely on any taxpayers’ money.

The Privy Purse is the name given to income from the Duchy of Lancaster, which invests its funds in agricultural, residential, commercial and financial portfolios.