Mayo’s first dog park officially opens at Lough Lannagh
Minister Dara Calleary to unveil the new community amenity in Castlebar today
Mayo’s first dedicated dog park will officially open at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar today (Friday, June 12), marking a significant milestone for dog owners and the wider community across the county.
The official opening ceremony will take place at 3.30pm and will be performed by Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The new facility has been funded through the Community Recognition Fund, which supports projects designed to enhance local infrastructure and promote community wellbeing.
The dog park was developed in response to strong public demand for a dedicated, secure space where dogs can exercise off-leash without impacting other users of the popular Lough Lannagh recreational area.
The project originated from a proposal put forward by Donna Sheridan, who tabled a motion at a meeting of the Castlebar Municipal District in 2023. A funding application was then submitted and approved.
With dog ownership continuing to grow across Mayo, local representatives identified the lack of a dedicated dog exercise facility as a gap in the county’s public amenities. The new park has been designed to complement the existing recreational facilities at Lough Lannagh, which is already a popular destination for walking, cycling and family activities.
Among the key features of the new dog park are separate enclosed areas for small and large dogs, specialised play equipment, secure fencing with double-gated access points, seating areas, waste disposal stations and natural landscaping that integrates with the surrounding lakeside environment.
The project also makes use of previously underutilised green space and incorporates sustainable design elements.
The facility is expected to provide dog owners with a safe and secure space to exercise their pets while also reducing pressure on shared walking routes.
Local officials say the new amenity will enhance the overall visitor experience at Lough Lannagh.