Proposed new dog laws – consultation goes live

The Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 has introduced powers for councils to bring in Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) to identify and address particular problems such as dog fouling, and dogs not on leads in public places.

Harborough District Council is considering introducing a PSPO to deal with these problems across the district.

Legally, only the views of statutory consultees need to be sought, but Harborough District Council is keen that the consultation be widened to allow members of the public to also have their say on the proposals.

Views are being invited on a potential Public Spaces Protection Order for:

• dog fouling covering the whole of the district
• keeping dogs on leads in certain recreational areas within the district
• Putting a dog on a lead when required to do so by an authorised officer

The consultation is now open and runs until 29 December 2015. It can be completed online at www.harborough.gov.uk/consultation

Those without internet access have the option to complete the survey using the computer screens in The Symington Building, Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough. Paper copies of the consultation will also be available in The Symington Building.

Cllr Neil Bannister, regulatory services, said: “This consultation process is an opportunity for all interested parties to feed into the process and to give their views on these proposals and I would encourage them to so. The council does not receive a significant number of complaints regarding dog fouling and the majority of dog owners act responsibly when it comes to clearing up after their pets. However it is important that council’s have the tools to be able to take enforcement action if necessary.”

Following feedback from the consultation, any final decisions will be agreed by Full Council in 2016.