Council introduces dog exclusion zones

The new Dog Control Order, introduced on Friday, February 1, means that dogs must also be kept away from bowling greens, tennis courts and other specified areas.

The local authority this week issued a list of 21 locations where dog owners are no longer permitted to take their pets, including the play areas at Abbeyglen, Anderson Park, Ballyclare War Memorial Park, Ballyduff, Ballynure War Memorial Park, Bawnmore, Burnside River Park, Erskine Park, Lilian Bland Community Park, Grange Estate, Hazelbank Park, Loughshore Park, Kings Park, Mallusk, Monkstown, Mossley and New Mossley.

Other areas off limits to dog walkers from February 1 include the playing fields at Foundry Lane in Ballyclare and Lilian Bland Community Park in Glengormley, as well as the sports pitches at Monkstown Community Centre and Mossley Recreation Grounds.

Anyone caught breaching a Dog Control Order could be issued with an £80 fixed penalty notice or face prosecution.

“This Dog Control Order comes into force following consultation with our residents and is designed to make our play areas and recreation grounds a more enjoyable space for everyone. We are asking dog owners to be responsible and our Dog Wardens and Park Wardens will be on the ground to make sure all dog owners are aware the new Dog Order,” explained Garth Fenning, Principal Environmental Health Officer.

Meanwhile, the council is still seeking people’s views on an additional proposed Dog Control Order relating to the designation of public places such as areas of parks where dogs will have to be kept on a lead.

“The council welcomes public views and opinions and these should be submitted in writing before February 7. Following this period of consultation, the council will decide the final designation of land to be affected by DCOs,” a spokesperson said.

For further information about Dog Control Orders log on to www.newtownabbey.gov.uk/dogs or telephone 9034 0161.