Darlington Borough Council is inviting residents, businesses and other interested parties to share their views on the renewal of dog control powers across the borough.

The council currently operates a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) covering dog control that was renewed in February 2024 and expires on 31 January 2027. The order gives the council powers to address dog fouling, prevent dogs from entering designated exclusion areas and require dogs to be kept on leads in certain locations, including cemeteries.

What the order covers

PSPOs are designed to tackle unreasonable and persistent behaviour that harms the quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors. Fixed Penalty Notices are generally only issued when other attempts to address behaviour have been unsuccessful.

The order does not impose a blanket ban on activities. Instead, it gives police and civic enforcement officers powers to respond to specific circumstances, such as requiring dog owners to pick up and dispose of dog waste correctly.

Proposed changes

As part of the renewal process, the council is considering a small number of changes to reflect new play areas and parkland. The proposed additional areas to be covered are:

  • Warwick Square play area
  • Neasham Road play area
  • Cow Green play area
  • Blackwell Heritage Parkland

Councillor Jim Garner, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said: "We want Darlington's parks, play areas and other public spaces to be places that everyone can enjoy. Most dog owners are responsible, but these powers give us a way to deal with the small number of cases where irresponsible behaviour causes problems for others."

He added: "Before we decide if we are going to renew the order, we want to hear from residents about their experiences and whether the proposed changes strike the right balance."

How to have your say

The council is particularly welcoming views on the proposed changes and people's experiences of dog control issues across the borough. Feedback will help inform the council's decision on whether to renew the PSPO and which areas and requirements it should cover.

Details of the current dog control PSPO, including maps showing the areas covered, are available on the council's Dog Control Public Space Protection Orders webpage. A survey is available to complete on the council website.