Council extends clampdown on dog mess and smoking

A crackdown on antisocial behaviour, including smoking and dog control, has been renewed following the go-ahead by a council.

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) was first introduced in October 2022 across West Northamptonshire as the council was receiving thousands of complaints about dog mess and pet control issues.

Police also reported 155 dog attacks in the area between October 2021 and November 2022.

West Northamptonshire Council's cabinet approved continuing the PSPO, which gives it more powers to ensure owners are looking after their pets responsibly when outside and deal with smoking in public places until 2028.

This summer's public consultation received 435 responses, with most people wanting the PSPO to continue, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

There were also calls for it to be expanded to St James' Park lake in Brackley and the Gravel Pits, near Northampton, which has been approved.

People could be fined up to £100 if they do not immediately pick up after their dog; put their dog on a lead when asked by an authorised officer, or if they walk more than four dogs at one time - unless they hold a breeding licence or provide dog day care services.

Pets must also be kept on a lead in cemeteries, memorial gardens, allotments, public car parks, sports grounds and pitches, land at Daventry Country Park, Northampton town centre and parts of Upton Country Park.

Owners have also been banned from taking their dog into play areas, educational institutions when in use by pupils, skate parks, tennis courts, multi-use games areas and bowling greens.

'Deterrents'

Smoking tobacco, electronic cigarettes, herbal cigarettes or any illegal substances is also banned in these areas.

Andrew Last, Reform UK cabinet member for human resources and corporate services, described the orders as "deterrents".

"They're not going to wipe out all irresponsible behaviour, and I think we have to accept that the vast majority of dog owners are responsible people."