Navan’s dog owners still waiting as long-promised dog run remains stuck in limbo
Navan’s dog owners will have to continue waiting for a promised dog run, nearly four years after local councillors approved a motion in 2022.
The proposal, backed by Navan Town Councillors in May of that year, called on Meath County Council to develop a designated dog run—an amenity long sought by residents in the fast-growing town.
Aontú councillor Emer Tóibín said progress has been slow.
“There has been a strong and sustained appetite for this for many years, with dog owners across our rapidly growing town seeking a safe, designated space where dogs can exercise freely, responsibly, and off-lead,” she said.
Dog runs are said to be vital for providing safe, supervised outdoor space for exercise, mental stimulation, and relief from unpredictable weather.
A 2022 survey carried out by Dog Trust Ireland discovered 49pc of households in Ireland have a dog.
Cllr Tóibín said that she requested an update months after the motion passed and was told that “suitable locations for the dog run are currently being considered. A further update will be issued in due course.”
“Fast forward three and a half years, and following renewed contact from constituents just last week, I again followed up with the Council,” she said.
“I was advised that a feasibility study is currently being carried out, which will be presented to the Director of Services and later brought before the SPC.”
“While this is not the burning issue of the day nor a major capital project, it is a stark and frustrating example of how approved motions can simply stall, gather dust, and fail to translate into action,” Cllr Tóibín added.
She also noted that many motions, despite the work involved in researching, drafting, and securing majority support, “never see the light of day.”
“We must ensure that approved motions progress in a timely and transparent manner so that confidence is maintained in the council process and in the delivery of agreed community initiatives,” she said.