Councils join forces to impose dog restrictions

Chorleywood Parish Council has joined forces with Three Rivers District Council to introduce the new Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) on Chorleywood Common. The orders came into force on April 1 and were brought in under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The parish rangers and clerk have been trained to oversee this new legislation which includes the restriction of the number of dogs to be walked by any one person to a maximum of four and making sure dogs are kept on a lead if directed to do so by an authorised officer. They will also be working to control dog-fouling on Chorleywood Common. It is now an offence to fail to immediately clear up any mess deposited from your dog anywhere in the district. If caught you can be prosecuted and the maximum penalty is £1,000. The council will operate a fixed penalty ticket service where offenders will be given the opportunity to avoid court action by paying a £50 fixed penalty charge. A parish council spokesperson said: “The parish council appreciate that the majority of dog owners are responsible and caring and will welcome this step.  Chorleywood Common is used by adults and children and it is hoped that all will be able to use and enjoy the Common without experiencing antisocial behaviour.” Free dog bags are available in the parish office and Chorleywood Library.