Views sought on dog control plans

People in Northampton are being asked their views on plans to bring in Dog Control Orders in the town.

Under new laws, Northampton Borough Council can introduce orders which could, for example, see dogs excluded from certain areas.

The orders could also limit the number of dogs handled by one person.

In April, an exhibition will be touring libraries to raise awareness of the new powers and also to give residents the chance to have their say.

Feedback forms will be available at each exhibition for any comments or suggestions.

Views sought on four Dog Control Orders

• Keeping dogs out of some areas
• Keeping dogs on a lead in some areas
• Limiting the number of dogs handled by one person
• Putting dogs on a lead when requested to do so

Trini Crake, Northampton Borough Council cabinet member responsible for environmental health, said: "We want people to tell us what they think about the new powers.

"Most dog owners in Northampton are considerate and responsible, and these powers are designed to encourage the minority to be responsible when walking their pet.

"Before we introduce any new powers we want to be sure people feel they would be beneficial and useful."

The exhibition will be at Duston Library from 31 March to 7 April; Hunsbury and Wootton Fields Libraries from 8 April to 14 April; Weston Favell Library and Kingsthorpe Libraries from 15 April to 21 April; Central Library 21 April to 2 May and the Guildhall foyer from 22 April to 2 May.

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