No dogs allowed in new Culloden play area
COMPLAINTS about dog mess have seen forest workers transform a section of woodland in Culloden into a pet-free zone.
Renamed Dugless Wood the section of the larger Culloden Wood has been fenced off to provide school groups and families with a space for outdoor learning and play without the worry of standing in the deposits of any four-legged friends.
A spokesman for Forest Enterprise Scotland said: "The trees have been thinned, log benches built, stump seats left around the site and fire pits put in, providing spaces for storytelling and circle time, or just relaxing with a picnic.
"There are lots of loose parts for building, balancing, jumping and climbing on and numerous opportunities for problem solving and adventurous, creative, imaginative play."
He added: "We very much see this as positive move making a safe and clean space for education and family activities."
With dogs still welcome in other parts of Culloden Wood he said: "We know that one of the main things that the general public would like to see is more dog walkers taking responsibility for their dog’s mess – it’s not rocket science.
"We hope children and families enjoy the new space."
Dugless Wood is around 30 metres from the main Forestry Commission car park on Tower Road with access via gates at either end of the site,
The new initiative went down well on social media where details were shared on the Facebook page for Balloch Community Council.
Allan Scott said: "Excellent idea, have to go and check it out. Too many folk insist on taking their dogs to play parks where kids should feel free to run uninhibited, so good to have an area dog-free (hopefully)."
Louise Martin-thyrs said: "Thank you! It looks amazing. Let’s hope everyone respects the effort put in here."
But Kelly MacDonald suggested the plan was the wrong solution to the thorny problem of dog mess.
"Should have limited the area for dogs instead of kids," she said. "If dog owners can’t be responsible then maybe restrict the area they use."
