Crackdown on bad dog owners

EXMOUTH dog owners who fail to properly control their pets on district council land now face a fine if they fail to comply.

EXMOUTH dog owners who fail to properly control their pets on district council land now face a fine if they fail to comply.

East Devon District Council executive members have brought in new laws preventing dogs from some public places, and ordering them to be kept on leads in others.

Owners breaking the rules could face a fixed penalty fine if they are spotted by the district council dog warden.

The district council said the preventative measures had been put in place in a bid to protect against the hazards of dog fouling.

District councillor David Cox, responsible for StreetScene, said: "While I understand the needs of owners to exercise their dogs, I believe it is totally inappropriate they should be permitted in an area where children and young people play.

"Sadly, not every dog owner is responsible and picks up after their pet."

Under the new rules, dogs are banned from Exmouth's Phear Park skate park and BMX areas, and also Withycombe Raleigh football field.

Dogs are also banned from Goosefield in Exton, Back Lane playing field, in Newton Poppleford, Woodbury recreation ground, at Orchard Close, and, annually, from May 1 until September 30, Woodbury cricket field.

Under the new rules, dogs must be kept on leads in Exmouth in the grounds of The Pavilion, Manor Gardens, The Strand Gardens, Carter Avenue playing field and Warren View playing fields.

Dogs must remain on leads on Budleigh Salterton's Greenway Lane playing field and also Woodbury village green.

l To see the full list of district council dog orders visit www.exmouthjournal.co.uk