Banning orders

From Wednesday dogs were banned from more than 70 sites in Newark and Sherwood.

The ban applies to play areas, fields and open spaces throughout the district.

In some areas dogs must be kept on leads at all times.

Responsible dog owners always clean up after their pets.

Responsible dog owners are aware of their pet’s temperament and control them accordingly, either by keeping them on a lead, putting a muzzle on them, or both.

Newark and Sherwood District Council wants to clean up open spaces, and that means trying to put an end to the scourge of dog fouling.

It believes dog control orders can help.

Council cabinet member Mrs Nora Armstrong is right — dog fouling has become a social taboo.

It is one of the most offensive types of littering and a matter of great public concern.

Not only is it extremely unpleasant, it also poses well documented health risks.

The problem is not limited to public parks and open spaces.

Many pavements in towns and villages have to be negotiated with great care.

It is the responsibility of dog owners to clean up after their animals.

Those who do not do so will have no right to complain that increasing restrictions are being applied to where they can walk their dogs.

They are the main reason for the restrictions.