Benvarden loses Council stray dogs contract

It emerged last week that, following a tendering process, the Council decided to award the contract to another kennel facility after 27 years of using Benvarden.

“Throughout this time the standard of services provided at Benvarden has been excellent,” said a Council spokeswoman.

“On 15 July 2009 the USPCA informed Coleraine Borough Council that it intended to reduce the level of services that it provided at Benvarden. Council negotiated a one year extension to the existing contract and set about investigating other options to maintain the comprehensive range of services that the USPCA had previously provided.

“During our assessment of available options the welfare of stray dogs was at the forefront of Council’s decision making but we must always work to ensure that it provides best value to our rate payers.

“The notification by the USPCA stimulated a review of potential providers and associated costs. In July this year the USPCA confirmed that it was withdrawing its re-homing and humane destruction services from Benvarden.

“Although it offered this important service in other parts of Northern Ireland this would create an increased cost to the Council ratepayer.

“Coleraine Borough Council recognises the dedication and commitment of staff at Benvarden and thanks the USPCA for its help and support over the past 27 years,” she concluded.

David Wilson of the USPCA told the Times: “We are disappointed but we understand that it is an economic decision.

“Benvarden has been very successful in its rehoming with over 90% success rate.

“The contract was put out to tender and Coleraine Council decided to go elsewhere. That is their decision.”