Keep Blakers Park’s Enclosed Space Open to Responsible Dog Owners

We, the undersigned, believe that the enclosed space at Blakers Park, Preston Drove should remain accessible to responsible dog owners when it is not in active use by children or families.

We recognise the concerns expressed by some local residents about dog fouling and safety. However, we believe that a shared, respectful approach would serve the wider community far better than an outright ban.

A practical space with shared benefits:

The enclosed area is often unused for long stretches of the day. In that time, it offers an invaluable, secure environment for positive reinforcement dog training, calm exercise, and controlled socialisation. These practices are recommended by respected animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA and The Kennel Club.

 

A secure space is especially important for:

• Teaching recall and basic manners

• Helping rescue or nervous dogs build confidence

• Preventing issues like reactivity or anxiety in other public areas

Dogs that are properly socialised and trained in controlled spaces are less likely to cause issues elsewhere in the park. Removing this access risks pushing training into more challenging or unsuitable parts of the community.

Respect for children and families:

Children do indeed need safe, clean areas to play. We support this completely, and it’s worth noting that Blakers Park already includes a dedicated playground and tennis courts. These remain off-limits to dogs, and rightly so.

We also believe that positive interactions with well-behaved dogs can help children build empathy and reduce fear. With appropriate adult supervision, dogs and children can co-exist safely in shared public spaces.

Cleanliness and responsibility:

Concerns about cleanliness and fouling are valid, but they are best addressed through:

• Clear signage and bins

• Community accountability

• Consistent messaging about responsible ownership

The vast majority of dog owners clean up after their pets and respect others using the park. We encourage enforcement against those who do not, rather than penalising responsible users.

Not about exclusivity—about inclusion:

We are not asking for exclusive access, nor do we seek to exclude children or families. Instead, we advocate for flexible, respectful use - particularly during times when the space is clearly empty.

Strictly dog-free policies risk alienating a large group of responsible residents, many of whom rely on the enclosed space to care for their dogs safely and responsibly. Let’s not turn a community space into a source of division.

Please sign to support a balanced and inclusive solution that keeps Blakers Park welcoming for everyone.