Plans to bans dogs from fenced children’s play areas in Chichester have been supported during a pubic consultation.
But opinion was divided over whether to continue to ban them from Priory Park and Bishops Palace Gardens, and whether they should continue to be banned from part of the foreshore and beach at Selsey between May and September.
The consultation was held as part of the district council’s proposal to update a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) covering dog fouling, dog exclusion areas, and the need for owners to put their dogs on leads when told to do so by an authorised officer.
The results will be discussed during a meeting of the environmental panel on Monday (September 21).
The consultation attracted more than 1,200 responses, with overwhelming support for extending the PSPO for a
further three years.
A report to the panel said that those who responded to the consultation consistently emphasised that the success of the PSPO would depend on effective enforcement, adequate infrastructure – such as poo bins – and responsible dog ownership.
The issue of responsibility was also raised regarding owners having to put their dogs on the lead when instructed. Some felt that well-trained dogs should be allowed off the lead, and restrictions should target irresponsible owners and out-of-control dogs only.
Some felt that banning dogs from Priory Park and the Palace Gardens would penalise responsible owners – as dogs on leads ‘present little risk’, exclude families with dogs, and prevent people from completing the Walls Walk.
As of the end of March, the council had received 45 complaints about dangerous dogs and 33 about fouling. There was also an incident in Bosham where a dog killed a swan.
Anyone caught breaking the rules can be issued a Fixed Penalty Notice of £150 (£100 if paid with 14 days). If they fail to pay, they can be taken to court and fined £1,000.
The draft PSPO, along with any recommendations from the panel, will be put to the cabinet for final approval.
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