Decorated greyhound kennel, Imperial Kennels, near RAF Lakenheath, given new building go-ahead by West Suffolk Council

A decorated greyhound kennel business near a military airbase has been given the go-ahead for a new building.

Planners at West Suffolk Council granted Mark Wallis, of Imperial Kennels, in Undley Common, permission to build a new steel-framed building.

The business, located near RAF Lakenheath, currently has two smaller buildings, which a planning statement said were beginning to look tired.

Imperial Kennels has around 40 greyhounds on site at any one time, half of which still compete in races.

Mr Wallis has been awarded GBGB Coach of the Year 14 times, with his greyhounds winning several prestigious races, including the Greyhound Derby, St Leger, Grand National, Essex Vase and Coronation Cup.

The new building, the statement said, would be slightly larger, with a footprint of 580sqm, and provide a clean environment for dogs.

Commenting on the application, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) offered no objections but warned there could be noise impacts on the greyhounds as a result of military planes flying over the site.

The Government department said it would not accept responsibility for any losses caused by the planes, training or associated activity.

Council planners have backed the plans, subject to conditions.