The authority has extended the closing date until midnight on 12 May.

This is a consultation on rules about dogs in public spaces and will help with the development of the new Dorset-wide Dog-related Public Spaces Protection Order.  The consultation is a chance for people – residents, business owners, organisations and visitors – to have their say on where and when they think there should be restrictions on dogs in public places, including beaches. It will also cover topics such as fouling and lead length.

Cllr Tony Alford, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Customer, Community and Regulatory Services, said, “These Orders are to make sure that everyone – with or without dogs – can safely enjoy public spaces.  We want to hear a wide range of views from as many people as possible.  We know that some people hold very strong views on the topic, and we aim to reflect a balanced and fair perspective within the new order.”

The survey will also remain open online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/dogspspo

 To have a paper copy of the survey and the maps of the areas it covers call 01305 251010. This can be emailed to you or on your request posted.  Please return the completed survey as promptly as possible to ensure your comments are included.

In December 2019, the existing Orders of former West Dorset, East Dorset, and Weymouth & Portland Borough Council Orders were extended to 31 December 2020. This was to maintain public safety by allowing time for the public consultation and implementation of a new Dorset-wide Order to take place without the expiry of those current orders.  Purbeck has its own byelaw covering similar matters, whereas the North Dorset Order does not expire until 2022.