URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1611

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee was asked to consider the future of the Dog Control Public Space Protection Order, which was due to expire on 13 June 2026, and to approve a three?year extension of the existing Order without variation.   The PSPO was first introduced in 2017 to replace the former dog fouling legislation that had lapsed nationally. It was last extended in 2023 and continued to provide the Council with essential powers for dealing with dog fouling and certain forms of dog?related anti?social behaviour across the borough.   Under the Anti?Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, a PSPO could only remain in force for a maximum of three years unless it was formally extended. To extend it, the Council had to be satisfied that the activities covered by the Order continued to have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of people in the area, and that the behaviour was persistent, continuing, or unreasonable. Based on the evidence, these tests had clearly been met.   Between April 2023 and March 2026, the Council received 260 complaints related to dogs and dog fouling. The existing Order required people in control of a dog to remove faeces, to put a dog on a lead when directed by an authorised officer, and not to take dogs into fenced children’s play areas. These remained proportionate and necessary measures to protect public health and ensured open spaces could be enjoyed safely.   A full consultation was carried out during February 2026, it was promoted online, through social media, at public meetings, and through direct engagement with residents in parks and open spaces. Whilst the number of responses was modest — which was consistent with previous consultations — the feedback was overwhelmingly supportive. Eighty per cent of respondents felt the PSPO was successful or very successful, and 100 per cent supported extending it for a further three years for the entire area of the Borough.   There are no additional financial implications arising from this decision. The PSPO functions primarily as a deterrent tool: it sets clear expectations for responsible dog ownership, provides a legal basis for intervention when needed, and supported officers in addressing the most problematic behaviour. The Order also included appropriate exemptions for people with disabilities who relied on assistance dogs.   If the PSPO was allowed to lapse, the Council would lose the legal powers needed to address dog fouling, exclusion areas, and dogs not being placed on a lead when directed. Extending the Order ensured continuity, supported health and wellbeing objectives in the corporate business plan, and helped maintain clean and safe public spaces for residents and visitors.   The Officers recommendation was therefore to extend the existing Dog Control PSPO for a further three years from 14 June 2026.   The Committee fully endorsed this approach.       Resolved that:    The existing Dog Control PSPO be extended, without variation, for a further three years.    

Date of Decision: April 15, 2026