Dog walking measures proposed for popular park

The council wants the public's views on people walking multiple dogs in the park

Control measures could be introduced in a "hugely popular" park amid concerns about an increase in commercial dog walking.

A council consultation is running until 3 June to get the public's views on people walking multiple dogs in Epsom's Nonsuch Park.

An Epsom & Ewell Borough Council spokesperson said public input would balance the needs of both dog walkers and the broader park community.

Councillor Julian Freeman, chair of the Nonsuch Park joint management committee, said most dog walkers were responsible but concerns had been raised.

Nearby Tandridge District Council also consulted on dog walking controls in the district after the death of dog walker Natasha Johnston in January 2023.

Council officers will be at the park on 15 and 22 May to answer questions

Mr Freeman said: "We are aware that Nonsuch Park is hugely popular with dog walkers and while most dog walkers are responsible, concerns have been raised about the growth of commercial walkers with multiple dogs.

“It is important that as many people as possible engage with the consultation, so the committee can understand park visitors’ thoughts, concerns and suggestions about dog control and commercial dog walking."

Council officers will be at the park on 15 and 22 May to answer public questions.

They will be at London Road Gate on 15 May from 10:30 BST until 12:30 and at Sparrow Farm Road Gate on 22 May from 12:30 until 14:30.