Council considering tighter dog control measures

Somerset Council says it wants feedback about dogs being off leads in parks

A council is considering more dog control measures and exclusion zones in public parks and spaces.

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for dog control in the Somerset East (formerly Mendip) area expired last year.

Somerset Council is running a consultation for people to give their views on proposals to renew the measures.

Martin Ruddle, a dog walker in Shepton Mallet said: "Often it's okay if dogs are off leads but it can be worrying when you get a big dog off leash leaping towards you."

He continues: "We always keep our dog on our lead but it would be a bit harsh to say dogs could never be off leads.

"However, owners have got to be in control of their dogs."

Collett Park in Shepton Mallet has signs saying keep dogs on a lead

Somerset Council says it wants to hear from residents in a consultation on dog restrictions until 17 February.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, from Somerset Council, said: "Most dog owners are resposible and the majority do clean up after their dog.

"But, we're keen to hear opinions around dog control in Somerset, especially in the old Mendip area."

The Public Spaces Protection Order for dogs in the area was due for renewal in July 2024, however it lapsed and hasn't been renewed yet.

Ms Smith-Roberts continued: "One element of these restrictions is dog control, another is dog fouling and which areas it can be enforced in.

"Some people don't like dogs, and there should be some protected areas."