Your views wanted on tackling dog fouling and irresponsible dog ownership

A public consultation will begin in April on plans to tackle dog fouling issues and irresponsible dog ownership in the county borough.

Under the proposed renewal of the dog control Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), dog walkers could be fined £100 if they fail to pick up after their pets in public areas or walk their dog without carrying a supply of dog waste bags. While the order does not restrict dogs from being off the lead in specific areas, it would require dog walkers to place their dog on a lead if requested to do so by an officer, making it an offence if they do not which could also result in a £100 fine.

A previous dog control PSPO which contained the same conditions started in 2018 and ran through to last year. By law, Bridgend County Borough Council has to carry out a public consultation before the local authority can make, extend or vary a PSPO.

We know that the majority of dog owners are responsible but far too many do not clean up after their own dogs, leaving mess behind in public spaces and on pavements. Some dog owners also allow their dogs to cause a nuisance in a public place by failing to keep their dog under control.

Before we look to continue with the PSPO, we would like to know what the public think so please have your say by completing the upcoming consultation.

Cllr John Spanswick, Cabinet Member for Communities

The proposed PSPO would relate to all public spaces throughout the county borough, including playing fields and beaches. It will not apply to any person who suffers from a disability which would prevent them from collecting their dog’s waste.                                                                                      

Cabinet members approved plans for the 12-week public consultation at a meeting on Tuesday 14 March. The outcome of the consultation will then be reported back to Cabinet before a decision is made to create the PSPO.