Write a comment
Council are proposing to create fenced dog exercise areas at Kilbroney and Castlewellan Forest Parks. A current facility at Derrymore Woods has proved very popular. It's on the agenda for Monday night's Enterprise, Regeneration and Tourism meeting.
A report which will be put before Councillors for noting explains that as per Government guidance, dogs are only required to be 'under control' in most areas of the forest parks and both parks currently have no dedicated area for unleashed dog exercise. The report adds that Delamont Country Park has had a dedicated dog exercise area in place for a number of years and it is a key attraction for dog owners. It has also been noted that the area has proven to significantly reduce incidents of dog fouling, confrontation and complaint.
While putting such a facility in Killbroney seems to be quite straightforward, Castlewellan will require planning permission due to its 'Historic Park Garden Demense' designation. The reports explains that officers will undertake a public survey, both online and at the venues to gauge opinion on proposed dog exercise areas. This will then enable them to apply for planning permission for Castlewellan and it is hoped that if approved it would be in place by Spring 2024 with Kilbroney commencing and being delivered earlier than that.
