DOG walkers say they’re being chased off Beaconsfield’s Ken Allen Field as tensions flare between locals, rangers and the Fremantle City Football Club over who gets to use the community space.

What was once a loose-knit evening gathering spot for dogs, kids and neighbours has become contested turf since the club signed a lease agreement with the City of Fremantle.

Residents claim the increased sporting use, combined with a stronger ranger presence, has transformed the feel of the field and restricted access for locals and their pets.

One resident described the reserve as “a meeting place for a multigenerational group of residents”, saying it had long been far more than just an off-leash area.

“The field was already in use; the impact was shattering,” they said.

Nearby residents claim rangers are now being called to the field “most evenings”, allegedly ordering owners to leash dogs and threatening to scan microchips.

Several claimed dogs had been scanned during one confrontation, with one child allegedly left crying and others too intimidated to return.

Residents accused the council and football club of “pushing us out” and “commercialising the space”.

Some also alleged they had been subjected to aggressive language from coaches and rangers during clashes at the ground.

But Fremantle City Football Club vice-president Rudi Cyrbja rejected claims the club was taking over the field or behaving aggressively toward locals.

“The majority of the players are from the community here,” he said.

Mr Cyrbja said the club had already compromised by shifting training to 6pm on two nights a week to allow more time for dog walkers.

“Anybody’s welcome in the facility, even during training,” he said.

“Dogs are welcome.”

The club claims only a small number of people are fuelling the hostility.

“There are a few individuals who are spoiling it for everyone,” Mr Cyrbja said.

He also alleged ongoing vandalism was costing the club dearly, with nets torn and signs spray-painted.

“It is a considerable cost for the club,” he said.

“The only thing we ask is for the law to be upheld.”

Mr Cyrbja said he had encouraged the council to install CCTV towers to improve safety and protect club property.

Caught in the middle is the City of Fremantle, which says it plans to “improve the mowing” around the field and remove old dugouts and infrastructure to create more recreational space.

“The City is monitoring the use of the area and will make further adjustments as required,” the council said.

The stoush comes as the council reviews its broader dog exercise policy, already a touchy subject among Freo dog owners worried about shrinking access to open space.

“The City’s Dog Exercise and Prohibited Areas Policy & Local Law are in the process of being reviewed,” the council said.

“The council will subsequently receive a report on the community consultation and make a determination on the proposed amendments.”

by DAISY RYAN