DOGS could be banned from all sports fields and playgrounds in Brighouse and Elland.

There will also be strict restrictions on dog-owners walking their pets on public paths. The moves are part of a new wave of dog control orders being considered by Calderdale Council. The Cabinet is to consider the case for new Dog Control Orders when it meets next Monday.

A report recommends consultation on the plan which would see new Orders being introduced to control dog fouling, areas in which dogs should be on a lead or excluded altogether, as well as some control over the maximum number of dogs walked by any one person. The new powers are designed to bring dog control in the borough up to date, to provide clarity for the public and enforcement officers on patrol.

The report acknowledges that the majority of dog owners are caring and responsible, pick up after their dogs, and keep their dogs under proper control in public areas. However, the report points out that the Council receives around 700 complaints a year about dog fouling and more than 300 complaints about dangerous dogs out of control. The report highlights particularly the danger to children and sports players from problems with dog mess and the possibility of eye damage from infection, in the worst cases.

Under the new regulations, dogs would have to be on a lead in areas such as cemeteries, allotments and towpaths, whilst dogs would be banned altogether from children’s playgrounds, sports pitches and school playing fields.