Bracknell council reviewing access points after dog killed

Dan Anderson, 33, who lives near Swinley Forest, says the hole in the fence on New Forest Ride poses a danger to pets and wildlife.

The council said it is “aware of breaks in the council-owned fence” and is working with The Crown Estate to ensure “appropriate and timely maintenance.”

Stephen Chown, head of natural estates, parks, and countryside, said: “Creating holes in the fence is an act of vandalism and is totally unacceptable.

READ MORE: Detectives investigate unexplained death of woman in Bracknell

“We understand that many regular users of the forest consider a continuous, unbroken fence to be inconvenient.

“Therefore, we are reviewing with The Crown Estate, the specific positioning of formal access points and gates.

“Our aim is to support safe and appropriate access, through agreed points, which do not encourage road crossing at unsafe locations.”

It comes after Mr Anderson tried to cover the hole with broken branches to prevent pets and animals from escaping.

He said he almost killed someone’s Labrador when it ran through the hole and onto the road.

READ MORE: Bracknell: Concerns over hole in fence in Swinley Forest

Mr Anderson said: “I had to slam on my brakes.

“It was a traumatic experience, and the fact I was almost the person to kill another dog is highly distressing.”

Mr Anderson said a spaniel was killed last month after running through the hole and onto the road.

Stephen Chown, head of natural estates, parks and countryside, said: “We are sorry to hear of any harm caused by vehicle accidents, and we extend our sympathies to anyone affected.

“We are aware of breaks in the council owned fence at this location and are working with colleagues at The Crown Estate to ensure appropriate and timely maintenance.

“Creating holes in the fence is an act of vandalism and is totally unacceptable.

“Residents can report a non-urgent crime, incident or suspicion to Thames Valley Police using their report a crime service online form, or by calling 101, which is available 24 hours a day. We understand that many regular users of the forest consider a continuous unbroken fence to be inconvenient.

“Therefore, we are reviewing with The Crown Estate, the specific positioning of formal access points and gates. Our aim is to support safe and appropriate access, through agreed points, which do not encourage road crossing at unsafe locations.

“We also urge all dog owners to take appropriate steps to keep their pets under close control near roads, even where fences are present.”