In a novel approach to community safety, Braintree District Council is set to host a ‘Dog Day’ at Halstead Public Gardens. The event, part of the Safer Streets Project, aims to unite dog owners for a cause that extends beyond mere pet entertainment. Scheduled for Saturday, 20 April, from 10 am to 2 pm, the day promises activities and informative sessions.
Dog owners will have the opportunity to join the ‘Dogwatch’ initiative, an Essex Police scheme encouraging the public to report unusual activities spotted during regular dog walks. The event underscores the role of community members in enhancing local security, featuring attractions such as a puppy parade, a family dog show, and a children’s dog trail.
Various organisations, including Essex Police, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, and Essex Therapy Dogs, will be present, offering a blend of entertainment and education. Additionally, local services like Community 360, Dogs Trust, and Danaher Animal Home will exhibit, promoting community engagement and animal welfare.
The event is free, aimed at fostering community spirit and safety awareness. Attendees who register in advance via Eventbrite ( click here to book ) will receive a complimentary goody bag on the day of the event.
Cllr Mary Cunningham, Braintree District Council’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, emphasizes the dual benefit of the event: “This is not just an entertaining day out for dog owners and lovers. It’s a strategic move to integrate the community’s daily activities, like dog walking, into our collective safety efforts. We encourage Halstead residents to learn more about and contribute to the Safer Streets project through this engaging platform.”
While the initiative marks a creative step towards crime prevention and community cohesiveness, it also highlights the ongoing efforts and investments into local safety. Braintree District Council, alongside the Office of the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Essex, has secured significant funding aimed at addressing community concerns like anti-social behaviour and crime. The ‘Dog Day’ is a reflection of these broader efforts to create safer, more engaged communities.
Essex Online welcomes this innovative approach but continues to watch how these initiatives translate into tangible improvements in community safety and public engagement in Halstead and beyond.
source: Braintree District Council
