New restrictions on dog walking in Sidmouth start today

Dog owners in Sidmouth are being warned to follow new restriction coming into force today (May 1) on where you are allowed to walk your dog.

The restrictions are part of two Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) which were due to expire on May 2.

Sidmouth Dog Exclusion Areas:

-Manstone Lane skate park

-The Ham play area (Rosedale)

Dog On Lead Areas:

-Putting Green and Three Cornered Plot (The Triangle)

-Connaught Gardens, including the pathways down from Peak Hill to Jacobs Ladder beach

The council has acknowledged the request of some residents to suspend parts of the orders to allow dog walking on local beaches.

A council spokesperson said: "The council has considered this request, but the legislation does not permit suspensions and officers have noted that the beaches have been very quiet during April, when dogs are not banned.

"The council also must consider the view of the many members of the public who like to come to the beaches without worrying about being bothered by dogs. Therefore, suspending this part of the order would have no effect, and would lead to confusion when the lockdown is relaxed or lifted."

According to EDDC the orders have been very successful with a 'high level of compliance' and a reduction in the number of enquiries about nuisance dogs, dogs on beaches and dog fouling.

An EDDC spokesperson added: "A particularly successful control has been the one which requires all dogs to be on leads on roads and pavements, and this has led to a decline in incidents where dogs worry walkers, runners and cyclists."

Councillor Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for Environment, said: "I'm really pleased on the success of the previous orders, which resulted in our streets, footpaths and open areas being cleaner than for many years, as most of our residents and visitors are doing the right thing, particularly on and around our beaches, because they understand the benefits of these controls.

"Following the recent public consultation Town and Parish Councils and the public suggested various changes that we have now included in these new orders. I would like to thank the Environmental Health team who carried out the recent public consultation and redrafted the orders.

"The team has worked hard over the past few years to make the PSPOs a success including many initiatives, particularly through the Parish and Town Councils and our local schools.

"I would ask all of our residents to make sure that they continue to help keep East Devon a clean and safe place to live in and visit."

For more information on EDDC's PSPOs, click here.