PLANS for a “dog hotel”, for the pets of guests at one of the Ribble Valley’s most prestigious venues, has been given the go-ahead by planning chiefs.

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

The existing piggery at Higher Whitewell Farm will be transformed into a small hotel for dogs, serving the pets of guests at the nearby Inn at Whitewell.

The 820sqm development will also include a cafe, farm shop, health spa and 69 parking spaces.

The farm shop and cafe will 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 per night, and extras can include treats and toys, fun swims, walks, and even canine hydrotherapy.

It has not been confirmed how many dogs will be able to board at once.

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