New dog control ‘traffic light’ system installed on Hartlepool farm

The initiative – which is also supported by Cleveland Police, the National Farmers Union, and the Kennel Club – has seen a number of new signs being erected at North Brierton Farm.

Pictured alongside one of the new signs is Chris Scaife, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Countryside Access Officer.

The signs – which will change depending on the season – will advise walkers on areas of the farm where dogs can be let loose (green light) and areas where the council would prefer them not to venture (red) or kept on a lead (amber). When a red sign is in place an alternate route will be clearly signed.

Chris Scaife, Countryside Access Officer with Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “We started to think about this initiative after a spate of attacks on sheep by dogs in the summer of 2015.

“The new signage is not banning dog walkers from using the footpaths that pass through the farm but reminding them that they must take responsibility for their pets.

“It is not a pleasant situation for farmers when their livestock is killed and it really can be prevented very easily.

“Farmers become emotionally attached to their livestock and they also lose revenue when attacks take place, often facing substantial vet bills.

“The signs will hopefully remind dog owners of their responsibilities and prevent any future attacks on sheep.

“We’re about to enter the lambing season when it’s particularly important dog owners keep their dogs on a lead at all times.”