A significant transformation is in the pipeline at Dogs Trust Ballymena, with plans recently lodged for approval that will see an expansion of the charity’s facilities at Teeshan Road.
Speaking to Love Ballymena, a spokesperson for the charity confirmed that the work will take place in two phases, phase one having already started at the beginning of this year in January.
The Ballymena Centre has been part of the Dogs Trust portfolio for many decades, and is currently one of the oldest sites under their care. According to a report sent to planners, as such it is now in need of modernisation, to ensure the centre is brought in line with other Dogs Trust facilities currently being built by the Charity.
Dogs Trust ensure that the design and specification of their kennelling and training facilities are in a constant state of research and development, to ensure the dogs receive the greatest possible care and welfare possible.
The report states:
“Ballymena will now benefit from this ongoing work, improving life for the resident dogs, staff and visitors alike.
“The proposed works include the construction of an Intake Building and Vet Consult / Accommodation Block on the sites of the existing kennel block and now dated isolation kennels. Additionally, a new Puppy Block is being proposed, to sit adjacent to the existing training barn.
“Dogs Trust have calculated that they need an additional 6 puppy / whelping kennels added to the centre, to ensure the centre can continue to offer the community of Ballymena, and wider catchment of Northern Ireland the best care for their beloved dogs.”
The plans will be considered by Mid and East Antrim’s Planning Committee over the next few months.
A Dogs Trust spokesperson told Love Ballymena:
“After finally getting off the ground in January 2022, due to Coronavirus issues, our new Dogs Trust Ballymena Phase One 17 kennel Rehoming Centre development is underway.
“The facility will offer specially designed kennelling facilities to ensure that a dog that resides with us has comfort, warmth and space to exercise. The facility is complete with external compounds, walking areas and ancillary food prep/bath and grooming areas.
“To keep up with local demand there are also three specialist kennels for dogs that require a little extra help to destress.
“Plans are currently underway for a Phase Two project to redevelop the existing kennelling facilities.”