DOGS could be banned from sports pitches.

Calderdale Council is considering the move to promote “responsible dog ownership”.

Under the proposed regulations dogs, with the exception of assistance dogs, would be excluded from areas where there are people playing sports on marked pitches, and from children’s play areas.

If backed it would mean dogs banned from the borough’s 120 sports pitches and playing fields, 30 ornamental gardens, 120 play areas, 19 bowling greens and 33 tennis courts.

Clr Barry Collins, Cabinet member for the environment, acknowledged that the “majority of dog owners were caring and responsible”.

He added: “The proposals do not include banning dogs from parks, nor will dogs be required to be on a lead at all times in parks.

“Dog walkers need to be able to exercise their dogs in public places. But we have to balance that against the health risks to members of the public, particularly children, who could come into contact with dog faeces.

“There is also a need to protect the health of colleagues who cut the grass and tend the bedding plants etc within these areas by preventing or limiting their contact with dog excrement.”