A new regulation requiring dogs to be kept on leads for five months each year has been confirmed, affecting thousands of dog walkers across parts of England. From March 1 to July 31, dog owners in the east of England must keep their pets on leads within several designated nature reserves, or risk an immediate £100 fine.
The public spaces protection orders (PSPOs) enforce this rule in specific areas including Byron’s Pool, Church End, and Fulbourn Road nature reserves. Failure to comply with the orders can lead to fines of up to £1,000.
The council’s decision followed a consultation earlier this year, which received over 800 responses. The majority supported stronger dog control measures, with some respondents suggesting increased patrols, the appointment of more dog wardens, or higher penalties. However, some concerns were raised regarding the impact of these restrictions on opportunities for dogs to roam off-lead.
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Local dog walker John Thorogood, aged 68, who frequents Coldham’s Common and Stourbridge Common with his dogs Jojo and Max, emphasised the importance of clear rules. He noted, “Everybody gets on and most people are aware of the rules. It’s important to know when dogs cannot be let off leads, particularly during nesting season for birds.”
Similarly, dog owner Sian Hopwood, 56, expressed that she rarely witnesses any issues caused by dogs. She remarked, “Many dogs here are well-behaved and dog owners generally get along. However, if problems arise, it is necessary to have rules to maintain good conduct.”
The Kennel Club has cautioned that, despite well-intentioned regulations, there is a risk that dogs could be unfairly labelled as a ‘nuisance’ or ‘annoyance’ by individuals who may simply dislike dogs, even when the animals are behaving appropriately.