East Lothian Council's Planning Committee has approved proposals for a pet cremation facility at Boggs Holdings, Pencaitland, following a meeting on Tuesday 1 September.

The application sought a change of use of agricultural land at 32 Boggs Holdings to create a pet cremation facility with associated works, including an above-ground gas tank. In 2025, retrospective permission was granted for the change of use of agricultural land and buildings to business use on part of the site.

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The applicant stated that the nearest comparable facility is in the Borders, requiring an approximate 64-mile round trip. Plans include an office to serve as an admin space and a private room for owners to spend time with their pets. Operations would be by appointment only, capped at a maximum of four cremations per day. The business would start with two members of staff, with potential for expansion, and operate Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

A total of nine letters of objection were received, citing concerns about introducing a combustion-based industrial process into a rural hamlet, increased traffic and emissions incompatible with the rural setting, and the proximity to neighbouring properties and the applicants' holiday let.

After debate, members voted eight to two to grant consent, with an amended condition requiring details of the fuel source to be submitted and confirming that diesel will not be permitted.

The application number is 26/00474/P.