The Municipal Services Department of La Laguna City Council has proclaimed the commencement of construction on a dog park in Las Mantecas. “This initiative is a direct response to the requests of dog owners living in the vicinity,” stated the councillor for the area, Fran Hernández. He further announced that “the work to prepare this space has just begun, aiming to provide these facilities for your pets within a few weeks.”
The plea for a designated area for dogs to play and enjoy was communicated to the council during a recent gathering with local representatives. This meeting included the participation of the president of the Benchomo Neighbourhood Association, Ángeles Martín, alongside Paula Martín, Elvira García, both residents of Las Mantecas, and Cande del Pino, representing the Association of Seniors in the area.
The establishment of this new dog park will, according to Hernández, “serve as an example of how community involvement can lead to tangible enhancements in their living environment, and that our residents feel and witness their requests being heard and addressed.”
The canine facility will be situated within the Las Mantecas Technological and Scientific Park, a site deemed the most suitable option by both municipal technicians and residents themselves, as stated by the mayor, who was accompanied by councillor Carmen Luisa González.
The president of the neighbourhood association, Ángeles Martín, expressed her contentment with the implementation of this initiative. “Having a dedicated area where dogs can run and play freely, without concern for other park users, was essential,” she remarked, emphasising that “this will alleviate potential inconveniences for both dog owners and those who do not have pets. Clearly, it is a resolution that benefits everyone and will contribute to enhancing well-being and harmony for all,” she underscored.
Moreover, the meeting served to examine the surroundings and gather additional requests for enhancements. “It is the residents themselves who best understand the needs of their neighbourhoods,” commented the municipal official, who affirmed that “engaging in dialogue with community groups is a priority, as it enables us to pinpoint issues, collaboratively seek solutions, and prioritise the most pressing actions. It is a collective effort, as they can better guide us on their true needs.”
“We recognise that this is the most effective way to ensure our initiatives always positively influence their daily experiences,” he stated.
900 m2 for canine recreation
The forthcoming dog area will span 900 m2 and will be positioned centrally within the park, adjacent to the children’s play and exercise area, opposite the skate zone. The benefit of this location is that it is currently adorned with several species of ficus trees, which, being large, will provide ample shade throughout the park.
Additionally, this site is relatively easy to enclose as it presents minimal challenges, with fairly straight routes. The fencing will utilise a Hercules-type barrier standing 1.5 metres tall, with two access gates positioned in opposite corners to facilitate access from different pathways.
In terms of park furnishings, given that there are only two benches along the walkway bordering it, several benches crafted from wooden logs will be installed, along with litter bins at both entrances.
“Our commitment is to ensure that the project meets all specifications, guaranteeing a secure and enjoyable space for pets,” concluded Hernández.
