Burgh fence-gate rumbles on

FENCE-GATE continues to rumble on in Lochmaben.

Concerns had been raised about “dangerous” barbed wire fencing put up by Building Craftsmen at the back of Marjoriebanks, the old railway line and Mossvale.

And the further afield burgh community were also up in arms after the fence denied them access to the field where a large number of people walked and children played for over five decades. Residents were also left reeling due to a lack of warnings or consultation that the fence was being erected.

The fence was put up by Builders Craftsmen, who confirmed it is a stock proof fence which had been installed in “preparation for livestock”.

The community council had asked for Building Craftsmen owner Billy Hewitson to come along to a meeting but he was unable to attend on Monday due to a prior engagement.

Instead, community council chairwoman Kenelma McCrae read out a letter from Building Craftsmen general manager John Kingsley who advised that the fence had been erected in preparation for livestock being placed on their land.

The letter read: “At present, we are allowing time for the large amount of dog faeces to degrade and be washed away by rainfall, as the area is currently unsuitable and unsafe for livestock due to contamination.

“While we were constructing the houses at Robson Park, our workers regularly observed members of the public walking their dogs through our field and failing to pick up after them. This has led to a significant accumulation of waste.

“We would appreciate it if local dog owners could refrain from accessing this private land and ensure they clean up after their pets in adjacent public areas, in line with local regulations.

“We would also like to highlight that following the completion of drainage works along the old railway line, we regraded the footpath to ensure it remains accessible to walkers all year round.

“Additionally, we were pleased to supply and erect the Christmas tree at the church, providing the local community with a real tree for the first time in several years.”

This was discussed further by the community councillors and members of the public at Monday’s meeting. Full coverage in next week’s Annandale Herald.