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Dogs to be banned from the Stray to allow for grazing sheep

Sheep could soon be grazing on the Stray.

Dog walkers in Harrogate could soon face an unexpected change as plans emerge to ban dogs from the Stray.

Under new rules, dog owners will no longer be able to walk their pooches on the Stray to allow sheep from a West Yorkshire farm to graze.

The move aims to improve soil health and boosting biodiversity while reducing the need for mechanical mowing.

Around 60 sheep are expected to be brought in and rotated across different areas of the Stray over several weeks.

Fencing and shepherd supervision would be in place, with public access maintained for pedestrians - but dogs would be prohibited to prevent distress to the flock.

The idea is said to have been developed in response to rising maintenance costs and a push for more sustainable land management, following similar schemes trialled elsewhere in the UK.

While no official confirmation has been made, an announcement is expected soon.

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