Background
In 2022 the Council sought views on a number of dog related issues and potential options to improve local amenity, the feedback was supportive of further, proportionate controls.
What is a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO)?
Public Space Protection Orders can be used to regulate activities which can have a detrimental effect on the local community. They can help with giving local councils and local police additional powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in specific locations. More information about this can be found on the gov.uk website. Controlling your dog in public: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Why are we looking to re-introduce and extend a PSPO?
We recognise that the vast majority of dog owners continue to act responsibly. Being able to walk a dog and to enjoy areas of open space is important to owners and to the welfare of their animals. As part of our previous evidence gathering people were generally supportive of the need for powers to address dog fouling and the introduction of some proportionate controls in the public interest. We also continue to receive complaints relating to irresponsible dog ownership.
Under the previous PSPO consultation, Warrington Borough Council proposed a number of requirements designed to reflect views and the evidence gathered. The PSPO came into force on 1 April 2024. The Council is required to review a PSPO within 3 years in order to identify whether there is evidence to continue it in its current format, amend it to reduce or increase its coverage or remove it if it is no longer necessary.
This is your opportunity to participate in this next consultation exercise and provide feedback on the proposals to maintain the current remit of the PSPO.