Issue - meetings

Cabinet considered proposals for the extension of the Public Space Protection Order for Dog Control and Members agreed that Thanet District Council was committed to improving the environment and improving community safety. Directly relating to this commitment was the Council's ability to address anti-social behaviour and related complaints. 

Public Space Protection Orders was a valuable tool to allow councils and partners to tackle behaviours that could have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality. The Thanet Dog Public Spaces Protection Order was originally implemented in 2017 and extended for a further 3 years in 2020 and continued to be an important aspect in maintaining quality of cleanliness on Thanet’s beaches, and protection of the district’s coastline, cemeteries and playgrounds. The order had helped protect the diversity of bird populations and wildlife at Pegwell Bay.

Councillor Pugh spoke under Council Procedure Rule 20.1.

Councillor Keen proposed, Councillor Duckworth seconded and Cabinet agreed:

1.  That the Current PSPO is extended for a further 3 years until 2026;

2.  To delegate any minor amendment of the PSPO to the Chief Executive.

Penny Button, Head of Neighbourhoods introduced the report and said that this public spaces protection order was adopted three years ago and no changes had been made protection order. Officers have had positive feedback regarding traffic lights system for exclusion zones.

One Member asked if officers monitored incidents, particularly in the parking areas and whether this included dog on dog incidents. The Member further asked whether were was any policy for dog walking in the parks and enforcement regarding dog pooh in local streets.

Penny Button said that park areas were not covered by this Public Spaces Protection Order. The dog wardens were involved in the enforcement of this Order. This year the beach enforcement team would be working throughout winter and help with the enforcement.

Members noted the report.