Decision details

(1) Amendment of the current Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) under Section 59 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, so that a person can be in charge of no more than four dogs at any one time in a public place unless they have a licence, be approved. 

(2) The introduction of a professional dog walking licence for persons wishing to walk more than four dogs and up to a maximum of six dogs at a cost of £200 per annum be approved.

(3) An increase in the current Fixed Penalty Notice of £80 to £100 for all offences (controls) contained in the PSPO. 

The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 gives local authorities powers to create a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to restrict activities carried out in a public space that have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of people in the vicinity. Introducing a PSPO to deal with dog fouling, control of dogs (including by professional dog-walkers) and exclusion of dogs from specified areas will enhance the Council’s ability to maintain a safe and good quality environment for the public. A period of consultation was undertaken to seek the views of the public and key stakeholders, and the interests of those in charge of dogs has been balanced against the interests of those affected by dogs.