Why there are signs in Warrington banning dogs from being off the lead

A Dog Control Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) came into force in August, allowing the council to take action against irresponsible dog owners.

The order covers parks, open spaces, nature reserves, cemeteries and crematoria, and areas of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI).

One such area is Alexandra Park in Stockton Heath, where a sign has been spotted warning dog owners to clean up and keep control of their dog.

Those who breach this order will incur either a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100, or a fine on prosecution in court of up to £1,000.

“We recognise that most people act responsibly when exercising their dogs,” said Cllr John Kerr-Brown, the council’s cabinet member responsible for environment health.

“This PSO will help to improve our environment and to protect wildlife, while ensuring our parks and green spaces remain safe, enjoyable places for everyone who uses them.”

Dog owners could fines of up to £1,000

Which areas are included?

The cemeteries, crematoria and closed cemeteries covered by the PSPO are:

Burtonwood Cemetery

Fox Covert Cemetery, Appleton

Holinfare Cemetery, 

Warrington Cemetery, 

Risley Presbyterian Chapel Burial Ground, 

Croft Unitarian Chapel Graveyard, 

Meeting Lane Closed Churchyard Penketh,

St Elphins Parish Church, 

St Helens Church, Hollinfare

St James Church, 

St Mary’s Penketh, 

St Mary’s Lymm,

St Oswalds Church, Padgate

St Paul’s Churchyard, Burtonwood

St Thomas Church, Stockton Heath

The sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) covered by the PSPO are:

Holcroft Moss

Thelwall/Woolston Eyes

Risley Moss

Rixton Claypits

Owners must also keep their dog on a lead at Paddington Meadows, Bewsey Meadows and Gatewarth Meadow between March and August to not disturb ground nesting birds.

You can view Warrington’s Dog Fouling PSPO at warrington.gov.uk/public-spaces-protection-orders-pspos

Dog fouling complaints and enquiries can be made by visiting warrington.gov.uk/dog-fouling