New rules would encourage responsible pet ownership and offer safer access to ‘dog section’ of Sidmouth beach

Residents have just days left to comment on proposals that include a clampdown on seagulls and tighter controls for dogs walkers across East Devon.

The district authority announced plans in December 2016, for a new set of controls that aim to encourage responsible pet ownership, minimise the hazard posed by loose animals and combat the problem of nuisance birds in seaside towns.

The Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) will expand on existing legal orders and also include proposals to incorporate safer access to a ‘dogs allowed’ section of Sidmouth beach.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) is urging people to give their feedback on proposals so they can be taken into consideration before any changes are implemented.

Under the new rules, dogs must be kept on leads on the highway and on footpaths next to roads to prevent loose canines posing a hazard to vehicles, cyclists and walkers.

The authority is also proposing a ban on feeding seagulls on or near town beaches in a bid to clamp down on the birds causing a nuisance and stealing food.

Current controls set to remain include, dog bans in some play parks and public gardens, seasonal dog exclusion zones on beaches and a requirement for pet owners to pick up their animal’s poo in all public places.

EDDC says changes are due to recent improvements to some areas, in response to requests from town and parish councils and observations from the environmental health team on the effectiveness of some existing controls.

Councillor Ian Chubb, EDDC’s portfolio holder for environment, said: “We play an important role in promoting and encouraging responsible dog ownership in East Devon. We do this by providing educational material and talks to schools and groups, attending events and responding to the concerns of residents and visitors.

“We have to change the Dog Control Orders into a PSPO and this is an important opportunity to improve the controls based on what residents, town and parish councils and officers are telling us. We want to know if you agree with what we are proposing, so please get involved.”

Find out about the proposals and give feedback before Tuesday, January 31, 2017 via: www.eastdevon.gov.uk/consultation-and-surveys/public-space-protection-order-consultation.

For a paper copy of the consultation, or other format, e-mail environmentalhealth@eastdevon.gov.uk or call 01395 571456.