Proposals for enclosed dog area at cemetery will not go ahead

Brent has confirmed that plans for a proposed enclosed area for dogs in Paddington Old Cemetery will not go ahead.

The decision was made following a comprehensive public consultation and review of community feedback.

More than 300 people, including local residents and grave owners, had their say. Almost two thirds of the respondents opposed the creation of a designated, secure space for dogs to exercise off-lead.

"We are grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts during the consultation period," said Cllr Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Customer Experience, Resident Support and Culture. "We received a significant amount of feedback highlighting both a degree of support and concern. Ultimately, and it became clear that the proposed enclosed dog area did not have broad enough support to justify moving forward."

Concerns raised included the potential impact on suitability of a dedicated dog exercise area within the setting of a cemetery, which many described as a place for peace, remembrance, and reflection.

Several respondents also expressed reservations of the potential for increased noise and activity in a space intended for quiet mourning. Other issues raised included the long-term management and enforcement of an enclosure for dogs, particularly in relation to dog control, maintenance standards, and the possibility of misuse.

While the enclosed area will not be developed at this time, Brent remains committed to ongoing dialogue with residents about how best to accommodate dogs and their owners in public spaces. In June, self-closing gates were installed on all access points leading into the designated off-lead dog area at Tiverton Green Park in Kensal Rise.