Wirral Good Dogs is a campaign action group aimed at stopping proposals put forward by Wirral Council that prohibit dogs from entering over 100 public areas across the Wirral. Many of the proposed areas are essential dog walking spaces for local residents. For the elderly, infirm, the lonely or even those who cannot drive, to lose these amenities is to lose a huge part of their life. For some, they will no longer be able to provide adequate care for their pet, for others, a social network will be destroyed.

These places are vital not only for the dogs health and well being but they are hubs of the community too, keeping communities talking and working together. If dog walkers are the predominant users of these areas, by banning dogs, we will see a rise in unused, unpoliced open spaces across our Borough. These places will be subject to antisocial and illegal activity - as they will become unused and desolate.

Dog Walkers and Dog Owners come from all walks of life. We are teachers, doctors, nurses, engineers, bus drivers, charity workers, lawyers, artists, military, entertainers. We are united by one thing - our love for and our commitment to our pets. We believe that the council should not be alienating us and banning us from places, but instead empowering us to be responsible and be the 'eyes and ears' of the community. We pick up litter, we deter criminal activity, we help keep our public areas safe. We can work together to challenge the irresponsible dog owners and I am certain that we can eradicate the problem!

The main issues with Wirral Council's proposals is that whilst some points are logical and sensible (keep dogs out of enclosed children's play areas) some points have been less publicised and are far less rational ( issue a £100 fine if a dog crosses a painted on playing field, despite there not being a match taking place or the dog actually fouling on the ground)

In addition to the irrational nature of some of the points, Wirral Council have failed to provide us with evidentiary support - namely - what data and what surveys have they conducted that lead them to make this extreme decision, that will affect and potentially ruin so many peoples daily lives? Where are the figures and the data?

As such, we need this money to raise awareness and to be able to continue to challenge these ridiculous proposals. We intend to -

place a wooden information board in each affected area, so people are aware of what is coming and have the opportunity to object! Not everyone is online and able to view the Council website - most people don't realise what they will be losing!

to have leaflets and information posters designed, again, so we can make people aware of what is coming!

to create t shirts, car stickers, car magnet signs and other merchandise - raising awareness!

to organise events to raise awareness!

Any surplus find will be donated to a registered dog charity, the receipt for which will be posted online as proof of the donation.

Please see our Facebook page for more information.

Thank you.

Sarah @ Good Dogs Wirral