By Ryan Sands
The proposed installation of a dedicated dog exercise area at Dunleath Park is to be assessed by the council.
On Monday, the local authority’s Active and Healthy Communities (AHC) Committee endorsed a recommendation, stemming from a notice of motion tabled by Conor Galbraith, that consideration of such a facility should form part of a wider future development review for Dunleath Park.
The SDLP representative’s proposal highlighted growing concerns from members of the public regarding dog fouling and incidents involving off-lead dogs at Dunleath Playing Fields.
It urged the council to explore the feasibility of creating a secure, fenced area within the park where dog owners could safely exercise their dogs off the lead.
A report presented to the committee noted that the council already operates a large dedicated dog exercise area at Delamont Country Park, and has approved similar spaces at forest parks in Kilbroney Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park.
Initial discussions suggested that a similar facility at Dunleath could involve a low-cost fenced area using agricultural-style fencing on around one acre of land, with possible separation for smaller and larger dogs.
The report added that Dunleath Park functions as an important recreational venue and flexible open space within the Downpatrick area.
It also noted that further assessment would be required before any decision could be made, including consultation with DEA councillors, residents and park users, as well as consideration of future recreational needs, cleansing requirements, drainage issues, planning requirements and capital funding.
Speaking on his motion, Cllr Galbraith said he had recently been contacted by residents concerned about dog fouling and dogs being off leads in inappropriate areas in Dunleath Park.
“There have been reports of children and older people being knocked over or frightened by dogs running loose,” he added.
In the full article the councillor explains that the proposal is not anti dog but it is promoting responsible ownership.
