A new dedicated dog play area has officially opened in Ormeau Park, providing a secure environment for exercise and socialisation. Located near the Ozone Complex and Indoor Tennis Centre, the facility includes seating, a water supply, and two separate enclosed zones to cater to different dog sizes. In a move toward sustainability, several play features have been upcycled from retired playground equipment and adapted for canine use.

The project was financed through the Concert Social Levy scheme, which ensures that a portion of the income generated from major events held in city parks is reinvested into local community assets.

The opening coincides with the launch of a new council awareness initiative, "Take the Lead – Bag It, Bin It!" designed to promote responsible ownership. To support this, Belfast City Council has intensified dog warden patrols in specific hotspot areas based on resident feedback.

Councillor Fred Cobain, Chair of the People and Communities Committee, said: "We know the vast majority of dog owners in Belfast are responsible. However, a small minority continue to leave waste behind, which impacts everyone who uses our shared spaces. "Alongside enforcement and daily cleansing across the city the Council's Education and Outreach Team has arranged for new dog fouling awareness messages to be displayed on Street Cleansing vehicles in North Belfast. Cleansing operatives across the city are also wearing "Ask me for a Dog Poo Bag" badges and can provide dog waste bags to residents who may be caught short while out walking their dog.

"Our 'Take the Lead – Bag It, Bin It!' campaign is about collective responsibility. We are investing in cleansing, education and enforcement, and we are reviewing how we deploy our resources. But we also need the public's support, by reporting issues."

The council reminds the public that failing to clean up after a dog is an offence. Offenders can be issued an £80 fixed penalty notice, which is reduced to £50 if settled within 10 days. Court prosecutions can result in fines of up to £1,000. Dog waste is permitted in any public litter bin or household black bin.

A city-wide survey regarding dog fouling and potential further measures remains open until today, Monday 2 March. Residents can also report fouling incidents via the council's website to assist in directing enforcement and cleansing resources.