26 January 2012 Last updated at 11:25 ET

Hull beagle breeding plans thrown out

Plans to extend a centre in East Yorkshire to breed dogs for scientific research have been rejected by the government.

Planning permission was refused for new buildings at the Grimston site, near Hull, owned by B&K Universal.

Roy Sutcliffe, the company's general manager, said the decision was an "own goal" for animal welfare.

Local animal campaigner Deborah Minns said the decision was a "victory" for the residents and the beagles.

Mr Sutcliffe said the firm would have to make do with "outdated facilities" and the decision would not impact on the number of dogs it used in research.

"Our site in Grimston will continue and we are determined to find a solution", he added.

'Just the beginning'

Mr Sutcliffe said dogs had been "instrumental in major breakthroughs" in medical research.

The company was hoping for an increase of 30% on its current 26,000 Sq ft (2,500 Sq m) floorplan.

Ms Minns said: "I can't believe it, people can make a difference, this is just the beginning. I'm looking for the end of vivisection."

A campaign - backed by comedian Ricky Gervais - had been run against extension of the Grimston site.

Anti-vivisection campaigners also lodged a petition, signed by 28,000 people, with the Planning Inspectorate.

The plans were rejected by East Riding of Yorkshire Council in June.

The company appealed against the decision and the matter has now been settled by the Secretary of State.