The owner of a successful dog park has spoken of her devastation after being asked to vacate their home at just two weeks’ notice.
Westwood Dog Park at Westwood Cross, Broadstairs, says it has been asked to leave by bosses at the shopping centre to make way for a future development.
Maxine Hughes, who started the venture in April, says the news has blindsided her and spoke of her disapointment at being turfed out so soon.
She told KentOnline: “It’s devastated us, I knew as soon as it went on social media how people would react – everyone is really upset about it.
“I feel a bit misled, the land has been empty for years and I was told there was nothing in the pipeline yet less than a year into it I’ve been asked to leave.
“I’ve spent so much time and money making it into something people would love and enjoy coming to.
“It’s ruined my Christmas and it’s just really cut-throat.”
It is understood the land is owned by Landsec and Savills with Westwood Cross issuing a licence to the dog park on behalf of the landowners.
The park had offered 45-minute slots between 6am and 9pm for just £15 – and could host as many as six dogs at a time.
Mrs Hughes says the park is a safe sanctuary for nervous pooches and is often fully booked and had been very well received by the community.
The last day of business is set to be January 6 – unless a petition to keep the park at its current home can get the attention of decision makers. Click here to view the petition which has nearly amassed 500 signatures.
“I’ve just been told it’s future development plans which will start in January – but it feels a bit sudden for that,” Maxine added.
“Our park has been a lifeline for so many dog owners and dogs in and around Thanet, including guide dogs and many rescues.
“As you can imagine, this has come as a massive shock to us.
“In an ideal world we want to stay put, so much energy has gone into this place and I just urge anyone to back us as we’ve done everything we can to make the park good.”
In the meantime, Maxine says she has been asked to put together an exit plan for bosses at Westwood Cross before the end of the week so they can file the paperwork before the Christmas holidays.
Despite the unwanted surprise, the business owner has vowed to do whatever she can to keep the business running – even if it does mean having to pack up and start anew elsewhere.
Westwood Cross management have been contacted for comment.
