Local residents are being asked to have their say on plans to reintroduce stricter dog control measures across the Mendip area.

Somerset Council has launched a consultation on proposals to renew a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for dog control, which expired last year.

If approved, the new order would introduce three restrictions for three years, targeting issues like dog fouling and poor control in public spaces. It would also create dog exclusion zones in play areas for children under five.

The consultation, which runs until 17 February, invites feedback from residents, businesses, and visitors to help shape the rules that will govern dog behaviour in the area of the former Mendip District Council.

Incidents spark safety concerns

The move comes after a series of dog-related incidents in Glastonbury raised safety concerns among residents.

• July 2021: A 72-year-old woman suffered a serious leg injury after being bitten by a husky on Cinnamon Lane, opposite a children's play area.
• August 2024: A councillor called for action after two dog attacks in a single week, including one involving an unleashed dog.
• August 2024: A woman's dog was attacked by a large Doberman-type dog near the River Brue, requiring medical attention and prompting a police investigation.

Across the wider Avon and Somerset area, dangerous dog offences have surged. Reports of such incidents increased from 95 in 2015 to 851 in 2023, according to Avon and Somerset Police.

Why is a PSPO needed?

PSPOs are enforceable under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and aim to address behaviour that negatively impacts public spaces. In this case, the renewed order would provide local authorities with powers to tackle issues like dog fouling and ensure dogs are kept under control in designated areas.

The council says the PSPO is essential to protect Glastonbury's public spaces and enhance safety for residents and visitors.

How to take part

To share your views, visit Somerset Council's website to complete the consultation online. If you prefer a paper copy, contact the council on 0300 123 2224 to request one by post.

The results of the consultation will inform the council's decision on whether to bring back the dog control PSPO, ensuring that any measures reflect the needs of the local community.