Newham Council PSPO limits dog walkers

The cabinet of Newham Council, in East London, has been asked to renew its dog public space protection order (PSPO) in a bid to tackle irresponsible or dangerous dog handling.

The borough-wide PSPO will limit the number of dogs permitted on a lead for a single walker to four and all animals must be kept on a lead on a public highway.

In addition, the PSPO allows police and council officers to force irresponsible dog walkers to keep animals on a lead and clean-up after them.

Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Housing Needs, Homelessness, Private Rented Sector and Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime, said: “Most people enjoy our open spaces responsibly, but a minority can make our streets and parks an unpleasant place to visit, and we are determined continue to take enforcement action to put a stop to it.”

Failure to comply with the PSPO can result in £100 fixed penalty notices being issued, with the potential for further prosecution in the event of persistent non-compliance.