Complaints Fly After Dogs Foul New Playpark In Saintfield

Several months ago Saintfield received a new state-of-the-art playpark which the community was proud of.

[caption id="attachment_49077" align="alignleft" width="390"]Down District Councillors Terry Andrews (SDLP) and Billy Walker (DUP) has appealed to people not to take dogs into playgrounds following complaintes of fouling in the new Saintfield play area. Down District Councillors Terry Andrews (SDLP) and Billy Walker (DUP) have appealed to people not to take dogs into playgrounds following complaints of fouling in the new Saintfield play area.[/caption]

Now dog owners have allowed their pooches into the play area and dog fouling has caused fur to fly. A number of complaints have been made to local councillors.

Councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews have commented on the situation. Cllr Walker said: “We have been contacted by a number of local people concerned at this problem. Dogs have been fouling within the area of the playpark and this is just not acceptable.

“It is a public health hazzard and it must be stopped immediately. We want the people of Saintfield to support this and ensure their dogs cannot get into the play area. A considerable amount of public money has been invested in this project and it is sad that they can just get away with this.

“There is a fence around the playpark and that is not only to keep children safe but to keep dogs out.”

Councillor Andrews added: “We have asked Down District Council to erect signs at all new playparks saying dogs are not allowed in the play areas. This is a clear health issue and must be dealt with.

“Local groups such as in Saintfield fought long and hard  over years to get these play areas and it is a shame that some people have allowed their dogs to foul in them showing such disregard for the playpark users and indeed the hard working committees who putt hem there.”

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