Maldon District Council wants to hear the views of residents and visitors on controlling dogs in public spaces.   

A survey has opened today to gather residents views on the current Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which is due for renewal in July. The PSPO provides some specific conditions in areas of Promenade Park, the Quayside in Burnham-on-Crouch, and Maldon, Burnham-on-Crouch and Heybridge Cemeteries.

It has proved to be a valuable tool in the control of dogs throughout the District and the Council is looking to renew it for another three years. The survey is asking for the public's views on two new conditions; the possibility of extending the PSPO to two areas of open sports pitches and extending the need for dogs to be kept on leads in certain areas to be year-round instead of seasonal.    

If the PSPO is agreed, the current arrangement where owners can be fined would continue. Fines can be given for issues such as failing to pick up dog fouling or failing to have a dog on a lead in designated areas. 

The Council is keen to understand what residents think of the proposals. A survey will therefore be available from April 10 to gather everyone's views.   

Councillor Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council, said "We know residents with dogs enjoy getting out in our beautiful District with their canine companions and we're proud to have so many places where dogs can be walked. 

 "We do recognise that it's a small number of dog owners who allow their dogs to cause issues. This is particularly important where children play or activities take place. We are therefore looking to renew our PSPO so that everyone can enjoy the District happily and safely."

 The PSPO questionnaire goes live on April 10 and is available until 22nd May.  You can access it here.