Mid Ulster Council considers expanding popular Dungannon dog park scheme

PLANS to explore the possibility of introducing dog parks in other parts of Mid Ulster are nearing conclusion following the success of the pilot scheme in Dungannon.

The issue was raised at Mid Ulster District Council’s Development Committee meeting on October 15, where councillor Trevor Wilson (UUP, Cookstown DEA) asked whether there were plans to roll out similar facilities elsewhere in the district.

Councillor Wilson said: “The Dungannon dog park was a success, I believe, and are there any plans to roll that out? My council colleague, Councillor [Meta] Graham, has asked that it be looked at for Aughnacloy as well.”

Responding, Strategic Director of Communities and Place, Kieran Gordon, confirmed that the pilot initiative had been successful and that work was underway to consider potential locations for further facilities.

“In relation to the dog park, my understanding is the pilot has been successful.

“We built into that approval process [in 2024], when we got the agreement to move forward with that pilot in Dungannon Park, that we would bring back the outcome of that review to this committee, and also proposals for where else in the district that we could explore that.

“So, I’m glad to say I’ve met with the team there a couple of weeks ago to talk about it. So, that is nearing its conclusion and hopefully there will be a paper coming to this committee in due course about that.”

Committee Chair, Councillor Córa Corry (Sinn Féin, Carntogher DEA), welcomed the news, remarking: “I know a lot of people will be excited about that, myself included.”

The existing dog park at Dungannon Park was officially launched in April 2024 as part of a pilot initiative suggested by the Council’s Development Committee.

The facility comprises two separate enclosed areas: one for small dogs, recommended for animals weighing under 13.5kg, and another for large dogs weighing over 13.5kg.

The Council had committed to reviewing the outcome of the Dungannon pilot and bringing forward proposals for other potential locations across the Mid Ulster district.

A report outlining the review and possible expansion plans is expected to be brought before the Development Committee in due course.