Consultation is due to start on 2 August for 8 weeks concerning the proposed introduction of dog control orders on publicly-owned land across the district. The council is encouraging residents of, and visitors to, the district to have their say on the proposals.
Three new control orders are being suggested under the Cleaner Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005. The proposals include extending the area over which failing to clear up dog fouling is an offence to include all public land within the district, including that owned by the City of London Corporation. The council also proposes to give authorised officers powers to request that a dog be put on a lead in public areas if necessary, and to restrict the number of dogs under one person’s control in public areas to four at one time.
For consultation questionnaire and other information regarding ‘Have you say on new dog control orders’ please click under-lined links, or alternatively, a copy of the questionnaire can be obtained by calling 01992 564608 or in writing to or by visiting the Council Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, Essex. CM16 4BZ
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Councillor Will Breare-Hall, Portfolio Holder for the environment, said “The council receives a number of complaints each year about ‘professional dog walkers’ taking an excessive number of dogs onto recreational land and public areas. Complaints refer to the dogs being out of control, blocking footpaths and fouling without the person responsible being able to clean up after them because of the number of dogs in their control. “I therefore encourage everyone with an interest in this issue to return a questionnaire.”
Responses will be reported back to Councillors to assist them in making any final decisions.
