Purpose

To invite Cabinet to consider and approve the extension of the dog controls Public Spaces Protection Order.

Decision

Resolved:

1. 1.    That, after taking into account the consultation feedback, the proposal to extend the Public Spaces Protection Order (as shown within Appendix 1) be approved for a further three years from 1st October 2026, under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014; and
2. 2.    That the Fixed Penalty Notice charge at £100, which is the statutory maximum for these offences, be maintained.

Reasons for the decision

·         The public consultation shows considerable public support for dog control offences within the Public Spaces Protection Order.

·         Extending the Public Spaces Protection Order for a further three years and maintaining the Fixed Penalty Notice charge at £100 enables effective enforcement of dog control issues across the Borough and provides a deterrent for dog related anti-social behaviour.

Alternative options considered

·         Decide not to extend the current PSPO, or to extend it for a lesser period of time. It is considered that the PSPO is an effective means to control dog related anti-social behaviour and prevent it from recurring, therefore a three year extension is proportionate.

·         Choose to amend the restrictions within the PSPO, for example to change, remove or add to the current controls. It is considered that the current controls assist in preventing dog related anti-social behaviour and promote public safety.

·         Change the Fixed Penalty Notice fine to a lesser amount – public consultation shows support for maintaining the fine at the current level which is the statutory maximum amount. This acts as a deterrent for these offences and is in-line with many other local authorities across the country.

·         Do nothing.