Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has approved a public consultation regarding two proposed dog exercise areas in Ballymena and Carrickfergus. The identified sites are at Wilson Crescent in Ballymena and Eden Playing Fields near Carrickfergus, designed to provide secure off-lead exercise spaces for dogs.
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Councillors have expressed concerns about the locations, parking availability, and the potential for equipment installation. Ballymena Alliance Councillor Jack Gibson suggested a need for an additional facility in Ballymena, stating that the planned site would only serve part of the town.
This initiative follows the opening of a dog exercise area at Carnfunnock Country Park outside Larne in June 2025, a result of community requests. The council has now identified these two potential new sites.
The Carrickfergus site at Eden Playing Fields is protected by Fields in Trust, which works to safeguard parks for public use and prevent development in these areas. During a meeting of the council's Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee, Councillor Aaron Skinner acknowledged the project's progress, highlighting its long duration.
Concerns about access and parking at the Ballymena site were raised by Braid TUV Councillor Matthew Warwick, who emphasized the importance of parking availability for residents. A council officer stated there is parking nearby at a play park and community center, clarifying that this proposal is still in the consultation stage.
Coast Road Ulster Unionist Councillor Maureen Morrow inquired about the consideration of alternative sites, while Ballymena TUV Councillor Matthew Armstrong mentioned that local residents already walk their dogs at Wakehurst. He raised questions regarding the cost-effectiveness of creating a new fenced area adjacent to an existing field.
The council officer reiterated that the proposed facility aims to offer a secure area for off-lead dog exercise, ensuring chosen sites are safe. Concerns about liability for dog incidents at these council facilities were also shared by Carrickfergus Castle DUP Alderman Billy Ashe MBE. The officer assured that these concerns, along with public feedback, would be discussed further in future committee meetings. No final decisions have yet been made regarding the establishment of the proposed dog exercise areas.