A proposal to transform a piece of farmland near Stroud into a pet cemetery has been put forward.

A planning application has been submitted to Gloucestershire County Council, seeking to convert a field at Limekiln Farm, Middle Lypiatt to a resting place for much loved pets.

The applicant, a firm called Time Right Ltd, has applied for permission for a change of use from agricultural grazing land to a pet cemetery.

The application also includes the use of the site as a 'waste transfer station for the temporary storage of clinical waste'.

There is already an existing pet crematorium at the site, which has been operating since 1986.

But the plan has sparked concern among neighbours, who say they are worried about smells and pollution, a detrimental impact to the landscape, which is located in a designated Area of Outstanding National Beauty, and traffic issues on the road leading to the site.

A total of 33 objections have been submitted so far, including one from Stroud District Councillor, Martin Whiteside.

Cllr Whiteside said: "I have concerns about the suitability of this site as a pet cemetery or any intensification of the site's usage for waste transfer and incineration.

"This is due to public health concerns, the Highways implications of the proposed development, and about the landscape impact given the site's location."

Glenn Tuck, managing director of Pet Cremation Services said: “PCS has been operating for over 30 years and operates 14 sites throughout the country.

"As a business it is important to us that our Limekiln crematorium does not cause the local community any concern with our application to improve the facility throughout.

"Our aims are simply to improve the cremation equipment, streamline our vehicle movements, whilst providing a beautiful and tranquil cemetery and memorial garden for bereaved pet owners.

"Our industry is heavily regulated and as a key service provider for the veterinary market it is essential that as a business, we continue to operate our open door policy for our clients.”