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Crime Solicitors

Durham County Council introduces PSPO for dog owners (6 June 2017)

Date: 06/06/2017
Duncan Lewis, Crime Solicitors, Durham County Council introduces PSPO for dog owners

Durham County Council is introducing new rules for dog owners from June, to tackle issues such as dog fouling, strays and out-of-control dogs.

The council has introduced a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) and the public can find out more about the new rules through the council’s #FollowOurLead campaign.

The PSPO will replace the council’s existing Dog Control Order introduced in 2009 – and means that from Thursday 1 June it is an offence to fail to pick up dog mess, allow a dog to stray, fail to put a dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer, or allow a dog into any fenced off play area named in the PSPO.

Anyone seen flouting the new rules will be issued with a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) – reduced to £60 if paid within 10 working days. Failing to pay the FPN will result in court action and a possible fine of up to £1,000.

The order will not apply to anyone who is registered blind, is disabled, or who uses a trained assistance dog.

The council says that, in order to help dog owners abide by the new rules, a designated dog exercise area is available at Hardwick Park, Sedgefield, for owners who wish to use it. Similar areas will also be available soon at Chester-le-Street Riverside Park and Waldridge Fell Country Park.

The introduction of the PSPO follows a public consultation at the end of 2016, when more than 80% of those who took part said they were in favour of the move.

Durham County Council’s Neighbourhood Protection Manager, Ian Hoult, said:

“While the majority of dog owners are responsible, there are still those whose actions impact upon our communities – whether it's failing to clear up after their dog, or being unable to control it when off a lead.

“The new order will enable us to crack down on these problems, making our communities safer, cleaner and more welcoming for everyone.

“In order to spread the message about the new rules and encourage everyone to abide by them, we're asking people with dogs to #FollowOurLead – and help inspire others to be responsible owners.”


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