A STRETCH of Himley Park is now permanently off limits to those with four legs.

In February, Dudley Council introduced a temporary dog-free zone on the grassed area between the park's main entrance and the west gate.

The aim was to give people a place to walk, play games and picnic away from dogs after some people got in touch with the authority to say they felt uncomfortable bringing their families to the park because of concerns over canines.

Dog owners were barking mad about the ban as it was a popular exercise spot but due to "overwhelming support" for the trial scheme, the council has now made the zone permanent, with the only exception being assistance dogs on leads.

The council said that out of the 251 park visitors surveyed throughout the year, 78 per cent said they were in favour of the dog free area and 62 per cent wanted it in place all year round.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: "The survey results have made it quite clear that a majority of people are in favour of the scheme and want the zone to be a permanent feature of the park.

“As well as the survey results, we have seen a notable increase in the number of people using that area of the park, either playing games or enjoying picnics, which is exactly what it was intended for."

He continued: “The dog free area provides all visitors to Himley Hall and Park the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful park and its surroundings at their leisure in an area they feel comfortable.

“I would like to thank everyone who has completed the survey and adhered to the dog free zone throughout the trial period.”