Locals reject canine day-care proposal

Residents in Surry Hills have mounted a campaign to stop a 40-dog day-care centre being established at 69 Fitzroy Street by business Dogs @ Play.

Neighbour Nicole Steinke says she is shocked by the proposal.

‘The DA is to house up to 40 small dogs every day, seven days a week’ she said. ‘It’s a medium sized terrace. Work has already begun to gut it and refit it as a kennel. This is unbelievable’.

Ms Steinke is not only concerned about dogs barking. ‘The dog smell also carries. Forty dogs is a lot of dog, even if they are small dogs, as this plan states.’

Locals fear the impact of the dogs arriving, leaving and being walked during the day will congest footpaths and affect food businesses on the busy street.

Owner of the business, Amanda Raine, says: ‘Dogs @ Play is dealing with council and we are proud to say our business has always satisfied any green and environmental concerns and passed with flying colours.’

‘We appreciate the resident’s feedback and at this stage it is appropriate for us to address any resident concerns through the Council.’

Public exhibition of the application closes today.