Partial ban on dogs at Preston Park in Stockton

Dogs are being banned from part of a Teesside park undergoing a £7m revamp.

The move, by Stockton Council, follows complaints from school parties that visit 186-year-old Preston Hall Museum and its associated park.

The authority said the ban would be limited to a newly-developed play facility and picnic area and would be reviewed in October.

Work on the hall and 100-acres of parkland is due to be completed later this year.

A council spokesman said: "Preston Park is being used as a pilot project with the introduction of new trial dog control areas.

"This follows a number of issues raised by general park users and visiting school groups regarding loose dogs and dog fouling.

"Signs have been erected throughout the park to show three clear areas where dogs can be off lead, where dogs can be taken on lead and where no dogs are allowed.

"We are fully aware that the majority of dog owners are responsible and respect the park and we hope the introduction of this trial will allow everybody to enjoy this popular site and all its attractions.

"All users can let us have their feedback and suggestions which will help us shape any future decisions at the end of the trial."