A gentle reminder to everyone enjoying Hazelbank Community Wood 🌳
We are very lucky to have so many people using and enjoying our community woodland — from walkers and families to local groups and the school’s outdoor learning sessions. Children have been heavily involved in planting, learning about nature, and helping to care for the wood, which has been wonderful to see.
Unfortunately, dog mess within the wood has become an increasing issue. While many responsible owners do clear up after their dogs, too many bags, or mess itself are still being left behind. With so many different users sharing the space, including nursery and school groups, we kindly ask everyone to help keep Hazelbank Wood clean and safe for all.
Dog waste bins We have explored options such as installing dog waste bins, but these carry ongoing costs and only work if used properly. There are already bins located close to the woodland entrances:
· Two bins near the Old Mill Road entrance
· One bin near Ard Park
· Additional bins by the Hub
Wildlife reminder : At this time of year, Hazelbank Wood is home to ground‑nesting birds. Please keep dogs under close control, and on leads where appropriate, to help protect wildlife and other woodland users.
Sharing the space kindly A little courtesy goes a long way when approaching other walkers, families, or education groups. The school uses pop‑out signs on either side of their learning area to give dog owners time to put dogs on leads or choose an alternative route. The wood is currently used by the school on Tuesday afternoons and Fridays, as well as on an ad‑hoc basis.
We would love everyone to continue following the Countryside Code within Hazelbank Wood:
🌱 Respect others 🌱 Protect wildlife 🌱 Leave no trace where possible
Thank you to everyone helping care for this wonderful shared space.
