Extra dog control measures proposed for five Northamptonshire country parks as council considers extending North Northants-wide order
Councillors will next week receive a report on a North Northants-wide dog control public space protection order (PSPO).
The current PSPO was introduced in 2023 for the whole of the North Northamptonshire area and covers:
- Dog fouling on land
- Dogs on leads in certain identified areas of public land
- Dogs on leads upon request
- Exclusion of dogs on certain areas of public land
It is due to expire at the end of this month (November) and the council must now consider whether it should be extended.
Following two public consultations, it is proposed that the current order is extended for a further period of three years with some amendments introduced for specific locations in the North Northants area.
The areas proposed for the introduction of additional dog control measures are:
- Barnwell Country Park
- East Carlton Country Park
- Fermyn Woods Country Park
- Irchester Country Park
- Sywell Country Park
The proposed additional controls have been carefully targeted and are only recommended where there is clear evidence that they are necessary to protect sensitive wildlife habitats, safeguard public safety or help manage potential conflicts between different users of the parks.
The council says it has considered each location on its individual merits and has sought to ensure that restrictions are proportionate, evidence-based and limited to those areas where they are genuinely required.
The council previously consulted on proposals that included an amendment relating to Pytchley Recreation Ground - it is recommended that this is not included in the order due to insufficient evidence to demonstrate necessity.
Cllr Kirk Harrison, the council’s executive member for regulatory services, said: "To reach this point, we have gone through a comprehensive consultation process.
"This involved us making amendments to the proposals after comments received during the first stage and then consulting on the revised order which respondents are largely supportive of.
"North Northamptonshire is fortunate to have many parks and open spaces that are enjoyed by dog owners every day and we want that to continue.
"These proposals have been designed to balance opportunities for people to exercise and enjoy their dogs with the need to protect wildlife, other park users and sensitive areas.
"We know that most dog owners in the North Northants area are responsible and enforcement will only ever be used as a last resort.
"But it is important that we have the right enforcement tools available should we need them. With this in mind, I look forward to discussing this report with my fellow councillors.”
Council leader Cllr Martin Griffiths said: “North Northamptonshire is a dog-friendly place and we know how much joy and happiness they bring to residents, both young and old, across the area.
"We know that most dog owners are considerate and responsible when out and about in public spaces across North Northants.
"However this order is designed to ensure that everyone knows the measures and we can enforce them, should we need to.”
North Northants Council’s executive will meet on Tuesday, November 10 at 10am at Corby Cube.
The papers are now available online and the meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube.