Dogged by Debate

Use of the field, particularly by dog walkers, including professional dog walkers, has increased dramatically over the last few years,  and we now have people as far as Stanmore driving to the field on a regular basis.

The Trustees proposed the establishment of a fenced dog free area but have received considerable opposition from a group, mainly dog walkers.

In order to assess the views of local residents, those living in houses bordering the field were asked their opinion and a significant majority supported the establishment of a dog free area. The Field Trustees still intend to have a dog free play and picnic area for the wider community of Bushey.

A group of objectors have put an alternative proposal forward. The group have suggested instead a virtual fence, without any physical separation, and that dog owners be told not to allow their dogs to go into that part of the field. The grass will be cut to delineate this area on a regular basis.

A  dog walkers charter will also be established and widely circulated.  Later in the year the Trustees will decide if this has been effective. If not  the Trustee’s will have to go ahead with a fence.