New dog control orders are now in force

NEW dog control orders have come into effect across Antrim and Newtownabbey.

They are being introduced to ensure consistency across the borough, covering dog exclusion areas, dogs-on-leads areas, dogs-on-leads-by-direction, and dog fouling.

From 1st January, dogs must be kept on leads in the Platinum Jubilee Garden area of Antrim Castle Gardens and in the Coronation Garden at Hazelbank Park, Newtownabbey, and they will be required to remain on leads in cemeteries and at the crematorium on Doagh Road, Newtownabbey.

Dogs will not be permitted in playgrounds, pitches, playing fields, allotments or sensory gardens at Antrim Forum and Hazelbank Park when the new restrictions are introduced.

A public consultation held in July supported stronger enforcement, alongside calls for designated off-lead areas to be retained or expanded, particularly at Hazelbank, Loughshore, and Antrim Castle Gardens.

In recent years, two dedicated dog parks have been created at Antrim Forum and Valley Park, Newtownabbey, providing space for off-lead exercise and sufficient designated spaces remain across the borough for off-lead exercise.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said: “All dog owners have a responsibility to keep their pets under control at all times. While these changes will apply across all council areas, there will continue to be many locations throughout the borough where dogs can be exercised both on and off the lead.

“The Council regularly receives reports of dog fouling, and I would remind residents that we all have a part to play in keeping our public spaces clean. By complying with the new dog control orders, we can demonstrate responsible ownership and help create a more pleasant environment for everyone.

“As a dog owner myself, I understand the importance of taking positive steps to make the borough work for both dog owners and non-dog owners alike. These measures are designed to benefit the whole community – when owners manage their dogs responsibly, everyone can enjoy our shared spaces.”

To learn more about the new regulations, visit the Council’s website for further information, look for new signage being installed in restricted areas, or contact the Dog Control Enforcement Officer Tel: 028 90340160, email: envhealth@antrimand

newtownabbey.gov.uk