Public Space Protection Order renewed for dog control across Central Bedfordshire

The decision was made a following a consultation in November
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Central Bedfordshire Council’s Executive has agreed to keep the existing rules as it renewed a Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) in relation to dogs, for the next three years.

A blanket rule requiring dogs to be on leads in any open space with a marked sports pitch has been retained and renewed.

The order also includes dogs being prohibited from fenced play and games areas and parts of the council’s country parks.

Central Bedfordshire Council's officesCentral Bedfordshire Council's offices
Central Bedfordshire Council's offices

Dogs will also still need to be on a lead in cemeteries, picnic areas and A and B roads as well as on public footpaths.

The decision was made following a consultation in November 2019 which revealed that 56 per cent of respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposal to remove the requirement that dogs are kept on leads near sports pitches.

The results also showed that 97 per cent of respondents strongly agreed or agreed with the proposal to retain the dog fouling order. With 90 per cent of respondents strongly agreeing or agreeing with the proposal to retain the dog exclusion zone orders.

Cllr Ian Dalgarno, executive member for community services said: “We listened to the public and partners around these orders and have agreed to keep the existing rules in place for the next three years.

This order gives our officers additional powers to deal with a wide range of anti-social issues and to assist in keeping our communities safe and clean.”

“Dogs running around and fouling on sports pitches was one of the biggest concerns raised by residents during the consultation.

"These powers will now give us the authority to ensure that we can crack down on irresponsible dog owners who fail to control or clean up after their dogs.”

Are the orders effective? Let us know what you think by emailing [email protected] or [email protected].