Residents were left furious after a south Manchester park popular with dog-walkers received new signs warning of penalties.
Last week, walkers at Highfield Park in Levenshulme spotted a sign warning that people must 'keep their dog on a lead at all times'.
The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) sign stated that anyone not abiding by the rules could face a fine of up to £1,000.
Users of the park said they were left feeling outraged, especially as the park is popular with dog owners.
"The only people who use that park are the dog walkers," one resident, who does not want to be named, told the Manchester Evening News .
"I feel we have been targeted as the first of many in this area."
However, council officials have now confirmed to the M.E.N that the sign was put up in error.
"The signs were installed in error by a contractor and will be removed," a spokesperson for Manchester Council said.
"We apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused."
Dog owners will not be required to keep their dogs on a lead at all times - only when instructed to do so.
The new sign, when replaced, will state it is an offence to 'fail to put, and keep, your dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer.'
The 70-acre land, which locals say is one of the 'hidden gems of Levenshulme', was designated as a country park by the council in the 1970s.
Despite objections from residents, plans for redeveloping part of Highfield Country Park were passed by the council in 2007.
