Dog Walker Accuses Sproson Park Spray of Causing Pet Diarrhoea

A concerned dog walker is seeking clarity after his two beloved Highland Terriers fell ill following a walk in Sproson Park. John Clarke, 70, claims that the dogs experienced symptoms such as diarrhoea and lethargy after walking on the park’s grass, which had recently been treated with chemicals. The incident has sparked concerns among local residents about the safety of the area and the communication surrounding the chemical treatment.

The park is currently undergoing significant development as part of a £2.3 million Government-funded project to transform it into a ‘dynamic, multi-purpose Vale Park Community Campus’. This ambitious plan includes the creation of two football pitches, a multi-use games area designed for children with special educational needs and disabilities, padel courts, walking trails, and enhanced CCTV, lighting, and signage.

However, John says that the community was not adequately informed about the chemical spraying. He expressed frustration over the lack of warning signs or prior notice, stating that the area had long been a popular spot for dog walkers and children playing sports. “I didn’t see any notice that they were going to do it or any warning signs around the park,” he said. “A tractor was spraying this chemical around for about four hours.”

The chemical application reportedly caused the grass to die within days, and John walked his dogs along the area before the effects became visible. “I don’t let them chew much grass, but they lick their paws after they’ve been on a walk,” he added. “They got really ill. My dogs got really lethargic, they wouldn’t eat their food and they had lots of diarrhoea. Other dog walkers I’ve bumped into since say their dogs have fallen ill too.”

In addition to health concerns, there are worries about the environmental impact of the project. John mentioned that turf is being dumped on the field, creating an unsightly appearance, and that the stream has been filled, potentially leading to flooding issues. “There are rumours that they’re going to put floodlights up so people can play football on there well into the night,” he said.

Port Vale Football Club has stated that they have engaged with the community throughout the development process. A club spokesperson shared: “We appreciate that these works may cause disruption locally and are writing to local residents to update them on the progress of the project and to keep them informed now that work has now begun in the park. We are working with all the relevant authorities to keep any disruption to a minimum while this work is ongoing.”

The project involved a consultation period with local residents, conducted by Sports Development Consultancy, STRI. This phase included collaboration with various community groups, ensuring that the voices of the local population were heard. The spokesperson continued: “STRI's role includes the full planning, design and delivery of the site, working closely with the project’s governance group made up of representatives from the club, Port Vale Foundation, and the city council.”

The redevelopment also focuses on sustainability. “The work involves re-leveling the area using soil re-purposed from the Port Vale training pitch refurbishment and prevents the need for a number of lorries and other traffic through the site. It also helps us to ensure the project is more environmentally sustainable,” the spokesperson explained.

In addition to physical improvements, the club is increasing its engagement with the local community. “Port Vale Foundation staff will be visiting nearby secondary schools to talk to young people about the project, involve them in the plans, and help build a sense of ownership in the new facilities,” the spokesperson added. “As the project develops, we hope to offer opportunities for young people to visit the site, learn about different careers and help shape future activities.”

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has confirmed that the chemical used in the park is not classified as hazardous. A council spokesperson said: “The work being carried out is part of a project that is developing the area to bring improved facilities for the community. These include redeveloped football pitches, walking trails, padel courts, and a new community hub building.”

The spokesperson clarified that the chemical applied was Roundup Glyphosate, a substance approved by regulatory bodies and considered safe. “This work also follows a consultation period. This involved local residents and community groups in December with drop-in sessions at Dimensions Leisure Centre and Port Vale,” they added.

The council emphasized that the project is a partnership between Port Vale, the city council, and STRI Sport Development Consultancy. “We are working with all parties to keep any small disruption to a minimum,” the spokesperson concluded. “The partnership is planning to increase engagement with the local community as the project continues to develop.”