Consider others when using Hutchison Park

The Amanzimtoti Sports Centre (ASC) requests the public to be considerate to others using the Hutchison Park facilities.

“Reading the local press and from personal experience, there appears to be a lot of conflict among ratepayers regarding dogs in public places,” said ASC chairman, Craig Chamier.

“We of the ASC also have ongoing complaints regarding this issue.

There are two main issues – dogs on leashes and owners not cleaning up after their pets.”

The affiliates of the ASC often complain about the mess left on the playing fields. “Nobody wants to practice or play their sport under these conditions,” said Craig.

“We have also had incidents of dogs chasing athletes on occasion, but this would appear to be isolated cases.

We have noticed conflict between dog owners, who have different opinions on this matter.”

In terms of eThekwini Municipal bylaws, dogs should be tethered on a leash at all times in public places.

Amenities manager of the parks, recreation and culture unit, Risky Gumede warned that spot fines will be issued to people who transgress the law. He said regular patrols will be conducted at Hutchison Park and other high risk areas where dogs are frequently off-leash and said owners will get fined.

Off-leash dogs not only pose a problem to other people using public facilities, there is also a possibility someone could get attacked and hurt.

Several ‘regulars’ to the park have witnessed and lodged complaints with the ASC, but culprits are persisting on turning a deaf ear.

Sign boards have been erected all over the park and beaches to discourage dog owners from taking their dogs off their leashes.

These bylaws are policed by the parks department law enforcement staff.

“However, we request all dog owners utilising the greater Hutchison Park area to be considerate and aware that they are impacting on others using the facilities,” said Craig.

“We are also aware that the public perceives the park to be the only safe place to walk their dogs and we are attempting to come up with constructive solutions, one of which is to increase the usable area around the park.”

Ilanda Wilds is currently being cleaned up to take the pressure off Hutchison Park, especially at peak times.

“My personal request to all you animal lovers is to get organised and speak with one voice.

There is obviously a great need in our community to create dedicated areas for dogs and their owners, whether they are on leashes or not. Does anyone have a constructive solution?

We can’t just have people doing what they feel like. The park is a public space. Be considerate and aware that other people also use the park.”

Read more: Toti must cherish Hutchison Park asset

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