Agenda item

Renewal of Dog Public Space Protection Orders

Report of the Group Director of Services.

Minutes:

Pursuant to Minute C20/Jul/23, the Cabinet Member with the Stronger Communities Portfolio introduced the report of the Group Director of Services (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to the outcome of the consultation exercise to enable Members to consider the renewal of the Dog Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s).

The submitted report stated that PSPO’s were introduced in the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014; a PSPO was designed to deal with a particular nuisance or problem in an area; the behaviour must be having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the community; the current dog PSPO was introduced on 31 January 2021, and it was due to lapse in January 2024; when considering the possible extension or renewal of the order, the Council must undertake statutory consultation as part of the review process; and that the consultation had been undertaken for a period of eight weeks during the summer.

In making its decision, Cabinet considered the responses received from the consultation undertaken with the public, businesses and Scrutiny; the Kennel Club advice in respect of dogs in cemeteries; and the equality and legal implications.

RESOLVED – (a) That the consultation feedback and the contents of the submitted report, be noted.

(b) That the Public Spaces Protection Order, be approved and renewed, and be formally made as set out in Appendix 2 of the submitted report, namely for:

(i) failure to remove dog faeces;

(ii) not keeping a dog on a lead on specified land;

(iii) not putting a dog on a lead and keeping on a lead when directed by an authorised officer; and

(iv) permitting a dog to enter land from which dogs are excluded.

REASONS – (a) The current Dog PSPO will cease to exist by 31 January 2024.

(b) For dog control/responsible dog ownership in Darlington.

Supporting documents: