District dog owners could finally be fined by wardens for not clearing up after their pets or having a means to pick it up.
While dog fouling is against the Environmental Act, most local authorities have a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to hand out on the spot fines.
South Holland District Council currently doesn’t so its Enviro-Crime team can’t hand out fines for dog fouling as it does for the other councils it works with – Boston and East Lindsey.
Now a consultation has been launched on proposed changes to the PSPO order in South Holland so they fall in line with the other authorities in the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership.
The three areas for dog controls proposed under the draft order are:
* A provision requiring the person in charge of a dog to clean up after it, if it defecates in a public space.
* A provision requiring the person in charge of a dog in a public space to have an appropriate means (i.e. a dog poo bag) to pick up any faeces deposited by that dog and to show they have a bag(s) if requested to do so by an authorised officer.
* The introduction of dog exclusion from enclosed children’s play areas.
Coun Anthony Casson, portfolio holder for public protection, told The Voice that its wardens would be able to hand out £100 fines for the offences if the changes are passed following the consultation.
“It’s about trying to keep South Holland tidy and is something we’ve wanted to do for a while,” he said. “The regulation is for local authorities to set and we’re looking to hear from people about our proposals.
“I would like to thank all responsible dog owners. The proposed Public Spaces Protection Order aims to ensure that all public spaces are safe for residents and visitors of our wonderful district. Before submitting your comments via the survey, please read through the Draft Public Spaces Protection Order, summary document and FAQs to understand the new order fully.”
A spokesman for the district council said: “The PSPO, which is aligned with many others in Lincolnshire, is being proposed to ensure that public spaces within South Holland are cleaner, healthier and safer places to play, walk, work and visit.
“The majority of dog owners act responsibly and pick up any fouling by their pet in a public space. Yet despite the continued effort of the council to raise awareness of the anti-social nature of dog fouling, the council continues to receive complaints regarding issues with dogs in public areas.”
To take part in the consultation and read the draft order and summary please visit www.sholland.gov.uk/pspodogcontrol
There will be paper copies of the survey at reception in Priory Road offices in Spalding or a request can be made for posting out by calling 01775 761161, or email [email protected]
