WORK has started on turning Green Lane playing fields in Devizes into a football hub but some dog owners are unhappy they will lose a place for walks.

Devizes Town Council put up a notice at the entrance to the playing fields saying the car park had now closed and the rest of the site would be shut from September 30.

Some people took to social media to express dismay at losing an area where they can exercise their dogs at a place that has easy parking while others were delighted the sports project was starting.

One said: “I think its exciting news. Plenty of dog walking trails around very close by, Drews Pond for one. Spoilt for choice really.”

But a dog owner replied saying: “I know we are spoilt for choice, but this was a safe environment for a dog in training.”

Another pointed out: “Yes there are plenty of places for walking but for people that struggle to walk the field was a nice area close to the car park.”

Others said they were delighted that youth football teams would at last have a place to practice and play matches including a father who said: “To be fair green lane has always been for sporting activities. A lot of dog walkers ruin it by not picking up after their dogs. I have boys who play matches there and parents have to get there early to do a dog poo check. And finally devizes is getting a sports area.”

The £1.7 million scheme that will include a 3G pitch and offices for the Wiltshire Football Association has finally reached starting point after years of negotiations which were hampered by concerns for wildlife and access for archers.

But now work has started on the scheme that will also include a pavilion with changing rooms, showers and toilets and three grass pitches.

Town clerk Simon Fisher said: “There are plenty of other places nearby for people to walk their dogs.” Skate boarders will continue to have access to ramps.