A CONSULTATION on the introduction of Dog Control Orders by South Lakeland District Council has begun.

It follows last year’s Clean Streets’ consultation which showed strong support from the public for the introduction of penalties to prevent fouling and orders to keep dogs under tighter control.

“The proposals we are consulting on are for dog control orders that will introduce measures to control the inappropriate behaviour of those dog owners who can spoil the enjoyment of others and for the majority of responsible dog owners,” said Coun Clare Feeney-Johnson, portfolio holder for Environment and Sustainability. “SLDC launched the Clean Streets consultation in response to calls from residents to address a number of street cleansing issues. This formal consultation is legally required and enables the public to consider the precise wording of the orders and the areas of land which are to be affected by the orders.

“Hopefully we can educate people to keep their dogs under control and to clean up after their pets. But by having these orders in place we would have the authority to take enforcement action against irresponsible dog owners.”

Statutory notice of SLDC’s intention to introduce the orders is being advertised and interested parties have until March 4 to make representations to the council. The orders and areas they cover are available to view at the council offices at South Lakeland House, Lowther Street, Kendal, between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.