Stricter rules for dog walkers could lead to fines

The PSPO would limit to four the number of dogs a person can walk within an area

Rule changes to where dog walkers can go with their pets could be enforced by fines up to £100.

Medway Council in Kent has launched a consultation around introducing a public space protection order (PSPO) which would ban dogs in some areas and require them to be on a lead in others.

The authority says the order would improve community safety and the local environment.

Residents are being asked for their views on proposals which would see dogs excluded from play areas and multi-use games areas in 99 local parks.

These include the play area and open space at Allhallows Road; the sports pavilion, two play areas, and games area at Barnfield Recreation Ground; and the play area, outdoor gym, and basketball area at Hempstead Play Recreation Ground.

There are also six locations where dogs would be required to be on leads, including the car parks, pond areas and picnic areas of Riverside Country Park; and the car parks and area around the pond in Capstone Country Park.

Riverside Country Park is one of the areas that would be affected by the plans

Additionally, dogs would have to be on leads in Chatham, Rochester, Woodlands and Strood cemeteries, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports.

The PSPO would limit to four the number of dogs a person can walk within the area.

A limit of four dogs is recommended by the RSPCA and pet business insurers.

The council says it is not currently considering exemptions for professional dog-walkers or doggy day care groups.

The PSPO would give the council and police greater powers to punish people who infringe the new rules, including issuing fixed penalty notices of up to £100.

The consultation runs until 6 September.