Dogs in public places rules to be enforced in new areas in Arun District

From now on, owners will need to keep their dogs on the lead in several new areas throughout Arun District, including Place St Maur (and other future water play areas), Discovery Garden in Hotham Park, and the West Beach Board Walk in Littlehampton. Current rules state that owners must also pick up poo left by the dog in a public space, obey signs that ban dogs from certain areas, keep them away from children’s play areas and sports facilities, and keep them on a lead anywhere signage makes clear they must do so.

The changes come after Arun District Councillors voted to renew and extend the public space protection order (PSPO) for dogs in public spaces at a meeting of the Environment Committee on September 7.

Valid for three years, the new rules are effective from November 6.

The changes come after a public consultation about the dogs in public spaces rules, and took community feedback into consideration when it came time to review the existing PSPO. The changes they’ve approved are based on feedback from members of the public, stakeholders, town and parish councils, and lessons gleaned from several years of managing enforcement issues related to dog control.

Environment committee chair Sue Wallsgrove, said: “(the vote) show(s) our commitment to making our open spaces enjoyable for all. As a dog owner myself, being able to enjoy our beautiful district with my canine companions is important, but dog owners must commit to following the rules to ensure the safety and cleanliness for others too.”