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March 29th 2024

Dog Owners Gain Support

Councillor Phil Bateman said "I have responded to the consultation that is currently taking place concerning the proposal for Northycote Farm and the plans to restrict dog owners from allowing their dogs off the lead."

People have contacted me in favour of the control of dogs on the site close to the farm and the other pet animals stabled there. However there is outrage that the City is going to reduce their area for exercise to such a confined space off a lead as identified in the consultation document.

I have been told that all the responsible dog owners want is a sufficiently large area that they can walk and exercise their dogs off the lead and enjoy the country park with their animals.

The current proposals do not allow enough space for them to do that, and it needs amending.

Also owners tell me that there is only two bins for dumping their dog excrement after they have picked it up. They believe that there should be many more such bins.

They tell me that it is the regular dog walkers that help keep the site protected and that they feel if they are driven away from the site the usage of the country park will lessen, and vandalism will increase.

I have supported their stance, which means no dogs off the leash anywhere near farm or pet animals. A rethink on the size and area of the land that is to be designated for dogs running off leash. The introduction of more waste bins for dog excrement across the country park.

I want to thank all the local dog owners that have brought this matter to my attention."
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Author: Phil Bateman

Article Date: 17th October 2006