Council to explore alternatives after rejecting Ecos dog park idea

The potential for locating a dog park at the Ecos Nature Park in Ballymena has been dismissed at a meeting of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council this week.

The issue was raised through a public question submitted ahead of Monday evening’s meeting at The Braid in Ballymena.

Responding, Interim Chief Executive Valerie Watts said:

“After consideration of this question, it would be council’s view that Ecos is not a suitable location for a dog park for a number of reasons.

“A key factor is the environment. Ecos is a nature park and it is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Protecting biodiversity is something the community value highly and it must absolutely remain a priority.

“Council also has to be mindful of public safety. Unfortunately, there have been ongoing problems in the wider area with dog fighting and introducing a dog park could make these issues worse if not carefully managed.

“Without proper supervision, there is a risk that the space could be misused and at present, the site is not monitored by wardens which means there would be limited oversight to prevent unsafe behaviour or to step in if problems arise.

“The input of the dog control enforcement team is very important because they can help guide how such a space should be managed to keep dogs and people safe.

“We also need to consider whether there are suitable sites that are large enough, with plenty of room for dogs to exercise without causing overcrowding, and, with regards to Ecos, an area that does not flood heavily.

“Officers will undertake to explore the concept of a dog park in the borough and, if benefits are identified and a suitable location can be found, further consideration will be brought before elected members at some stage in the future.”

An enclosed dog exercise area is located at the council-owned Carnfunnock Country Park, outside Larne, which is temporarily closed for a £7m upgrade.

The query also referenced a dog park facility provided by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council near Antrim Forum, offering space for off-lead dog exercise.