There are only a few weeks left to challenge the new 2024 dog-related Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) across the Dorset Council area which is due to come into effect on 1 January.

In an extensive consultation, 4,221 responses were received:

• 80% were from local residents
• 16.5% from visitors
• 2.8% from other
• 62% of responses came from dog owners
• 9.5% of the respondents considered themselves having a disability

The reason for implementing a dog related PSPO on specific beaches and open spaces is to keep them free from dog fouling and safe to use by all.

Insisting that dogs are on leads in particular areas means that the owner has adequate control over the dog which means that they can see if the dog fouls and doesn’t cause issues with other people or dogs.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Customer and Community Services said: “I am very pleased that we have been able to implement the order according to the thoughts of most respondents.”

Unless amended at any stage, the Order will remain in place for three years.