Dogs Trust and Green Party welcomed closure of Drumbo Park greyhound racetrack
The Dogs Trust and the Green Party have both welcomed the closure of Drumbo Park, a greyhound racetrack in Lisburn.
Drumbo Park closed abruptly and it is understood that a lack of runners and low attendance numbers forced the decision.
The multi-million pound venue opened in 2008. In 2018 it closed due to financial difficulties but reopened again in 2019 under new management.
Dogs Trust has welcomed the closure and says it hopes the news signals the beginning of the end for greyhound racing in Northern Ireland.
Laura Orr, Regional Public Affairs Officer at Dogs Trust said: “We welcome the closure of Drumbo Park and hope it marks the beginning of the end for this cruel and outdated so-called sport.
"Greyhounds should not be put at risk of serious injury or death simply for entertainment.
“Our priority now must be the dogs connected with the track.
"Every greyhound must be accounted for, properly cared for and given the opportunity to become a much-loved companion.
"Northern Ireland should follow Wales and Scotland by committing to a managed, phased end to greyhound racing.”
The Green Party in Northern Ireland has also welcomed the closure of the greyhound racing track.
Green Party Councillor for Belfast Anthony Flynn, who is also running for election in the upcoming Assembly elections for North Down, has welcomed the closure of Drumbo Park, following its final meeting on August 29, 2026.
Mr Flynn said “I am very happy to see Drumbo Park close its doors permanently.
"The industry is struggling to attract spectators and, increasingly, even enough dogs to keep tracks operating.
“The welfare record of greyhound racing is deeply concerning.
" In the Republic of Ireland alone, 197 greyhounds died and 344 were recorded as injured at tracks in 2025.
“Here in Northern Ireland, we don't even have equivalent published figures telling us how many greyhounds are being injured or dying on our tracks. That lack of transparency is simply not acceptable.
“The public is turning its back on this outdated industry.
“The DAERA Minister should now stop delaying and bring forward legislation to ban greyhound racing in Northern Ireland.
"You bet. They die."