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