The Isle of Wight Council has decided to reinstate a series of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which regulate dog control measures across the Island.
The orders — which govern where dogs can be walked, where they must be kept on a lead and what action must be taken to clean up after them — were approved by Cabinet members last Thursday.
The decision was made following a full consultation which gathered feedback from nearly 1,100 online survey responses and 18 written submissions.
Some of the key results from the consultation were:
- Dog fouling: 100 per cent of respondents supported the reinstatement of the order requiring dog owners to remove faeces from public land.
- Dogs on beaches: 58 per cent of respondents agreed dogs should be excluded from selected beaches between 1 May and 30 September each year, with many suggesting a time limit of 9am to 6pm.
- Dogs in cemeteries: 97 per cent of respondents supported the requirement for dogs to be on a lead in cemeteries.
- Dogs in fenced playgrounds: 96 per cent of respondents agreed dogs should be restricted from fenced children’s play areas.
- Dog control on public highways: 96 per cent of respondents supported the requirement for dogs to be on a lead on public highways.
- Dog control at St Helens Duver Revetment: 81 per cent of respondents agreed dogs should be on a lead in this area during the summer months.
- Dog Control on rights of way: 98 per cent of respondents supported the requirement for dogs to be on a lead when walking through livestock areas.
In light of these results, Councillor Debbie Andre suggested that when the PSPOs are due for renewal in three years, the consultation responses should be reviewed on an individual ward basis.
This will allow for a more detailed assessment of residents’ views and the potential inclusion of specific time periods for dog exclusions. This amendment was supported by councillors.
Additionally, an amendment was approved to reduce the western boundary of the Sandown beach exclusion zone to correct a current anomaly.
Council leader, Councillor Phil Jordan, said:
“PSPOs are vital pieces of legislation that help us maintain the quality of life in our community, and for our community, by addressing issues such as dog fouling, dogs on beaches, and dogs in public spaces.
"These orders ensure our public areas remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Our goal is to balance the needs of dog owners with the broader community’s right to clean and safe public spaces.
"Be agreeing a more precise geography for feedback in the next round of consultations we believe we have managed to find the right balance that gives us the best outcomes for the majority of all residents and visitors.”
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