Navan’s long-sought dog run edges closer to reality after feasibility assessment
A feasibility assessment for a proposed dog run in Navan has been completed by Meath County Council, bringing the long-sought community amenity closer to reality for local residents and dog owners.
The assessment, which examines potential locations, resourcing and operational requirements, has now been submitted to the council’s Management Team for review — a formal stage required to progress the proposal.
Navan councillor Emer Toibin, who has been advocating for the facility on behalf of residents, said the move represents an important step in “turning community demand into delivery.”
“I will continue to press for progress and transparency as the review concludes and the proposal moves through the relevant Strategic Policy Committee process,” she said.
“Dog owners and families in Navan are eager for this amenity, and I will keep pushing to ensure the project advances to the next stage as quickly as possible.”
The proposal was originally backed by Navan Town Councillors in May 2022, calling on Meath County Council to develop a designated dog run — an amenity long sought by residents in the fast-growing town.
Dog runs are said to be vital for providing safe, supervised outdoor space for exercise, mental stimulation, and protection from unpredictable weather.
A 2022 survey by Dog Trust Ireland found that 49pc of households in Ireland own a dog.
Speaking last month, Cllr Tóibin acknowledged that 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.