A COUNCIL’S decision to ban dogs from 72 parks has been slammed – by a councillor campaigning to cut dog fouling in Kirklees.
Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottinghamshire, has banned dogs from 72 public spaces after owners failed to clear up after their pets.
Dog walkers who flout the ban face £75 on-the-spot fines, which can rise to £1,000 if the matter goes to court.
The ban will be enforced by animal welfare officers, park rangers and police community support officers.
But Holme Valley North councillor Royston Rogers has branded the decision as ‘stupid’ and ‘overreacting’.
Clr Rogers is working with Kirklees dog wardens and local police to cut dog fouling, especially at Jagger Lane Rec, Honley, which has been blighted by dog poo.
He said: “That’s silly. Next they’ll be banning people in wheelchairs in case bolts fall on the grass! It’s not the dogs. It’s irresponsible owners that aren’t picking up the poo.”
Kirklees Council said it was not considering banning dogs from parks.
