Dogs to be banned from Himley park to encourage picnicking families

Signs have been placed around the 18th century attraction on the Himley Road warning of the changes.

The 'dog free zones' will see canines prevented from using open spaces stretching between the Main Gate and West Gate.

Angry dog walkers have already launched a petition against the plans, which come into force in February.

John Share, from Sedgley, said he had been walking his golden retriever around Himley for 15 years.

He claimed it was people leaving rubbish that was causing the main problems and the dogs should be left alone.

"We found out from one of the wardens just before Christmas and were told the ban was going to come in," he said.

"We didn't hear anything for a while but posters have now been put up around the park saying it will come into force next month.

"About a third of the park will be closed off and a lot of people are not happy about it."

Catherine Molineux, from Coseley, who owns a white German shepherd, said Himley had always been a popular spot for dog walkers.

"I enjoy walking my dog there and I can't understand what the problem is," she said.

"You would think that with all the talk of council cut backs they would have better things to spend the money on than silly schemes like this.

"It will ruin a great location for so many considerate dog walkers and it has been done without people being consulted or even told about it.

"My dog Rosie is so well behaved and she causes no bother to anybody. I always clean up after her.

"Himley is her favourite place so what a shame it will be if it's unnecessarily ruined."

Derek White, from Russells Hall, who walks his pet Shih Tzu, Mitzi, round Himley said he was one of many dog owners considering cancelling their £50 a year parking permits and going elsewhere.

"We just can't understand the council's reasoning behind this and also how they are going to marshall it," he said.

"A lot of disabled people use the park to exercise their dogs but they won't be able to let them off the lead.

"It also seems like a strange area to have picnics there too because it's nowhere near the pool or the cafe."

Dudley councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said the grounds of Himley Hall were used by lots of people throughout the year for a variety of reasons.

"We have to make sure we cater for everyone," he said.

"As the spring months approach we are looking to encourage more people and families to enjoy picnics and other relaxing pursuits in these lovely grounds.

"While dog walkers are free to exercise their pets in the vast majority of the open space, we are looking to provide a small pet-free area for other enjoyment.

"I am sure people will understand this and appreciate the need to cater for everyone."