Doggy Paradise

The new Doggy Fun Park is currently at the design stage with innovative architects 2020 producing plans for this canine attraction.

The future of the facility was under threat after the land, owned by the USPCA, was advertised for sale in January, however the public got behind the campaign to raise the money to buy the land and now the future is looking extremely bright for the thousands of dogs that are going to need rescued in future.

Speaking about the exciting development, Shaun McIntyre, told the Times: “We noticed people walking their dogs round the back fields and although we didn’t own it we thought it would be a great idea if we did and gave dog owners a safe and specific area to walk them.

“The sale of the land is due to go through this week and 2020 architects will have the first set of plans ready to be unveiled at our Open Day on August 1st.”

The Fun Park will provide dog lovers with a multitude of paths and trails, ponds and waterfalls, agility, adventure, a tennis ball run with not one but two tennis ball firing machines.

“We will have secure enclosures which allows owners to let their dogs off the lead and they can run around with peace of mind,” added Shaun. “We will also have a pet memorial garden, with an area to come and reflect on your pet.”

The project is in the early stages yet but signals an exciting new time for Benvarden.

“We are hoping to be up and running in the spring of next year,” continued Shaun. “Everyone things it’s a brilliant idea and a number of Ballymoney councillors I have spoken to are 100% behind us.

“It won’t be a massive money maker for us, it’s more about a long term investment. As long as we break even and cover our costs that’s the main thing.

“We have had a brilliant response to the news of the Doggy Play Park and already dog clubs from Belfast and Downpatrick have been in touch to say they are interested in hiring it.

“After the rough time we had from the start of the year, it’s great to be doing something positive and looking to the future. It’s been a long time coming but it’s been worth it.”

Benvarden Open day is on Saturday, August 1 from 1pm to 4pm.