Call to ban dogs from Nailsea playing fields

Residents are being asked for their views on banning people from letting their dogs loose on public playing fields.

Nailsea Town Council has asked North Somerset Council to initiate a public consultation regarding dog control orders.

Clerk Ian Morrell said: “This would identify which areas, if any, might be subject to the requirement that dogs are kept on a lead at all times.

“The consultation is expected to start in early 2011.

A leisure facilities committee heard that a woman jogger has been badly bitten by a dog at the Grove sports field and another knocked flying.

But by far the biggest complaint was about dogs mess.

Councillor John Wilson said: “At a Nailsea Playing Fields Association meeting the continuing problem of dog dirt was discussed.

“Seemingly some owners are still ignoring the instructions to keep dogs on a lead and are not clearing away dog mess.

“Even when the dog’s dodo is cleared there is still a residue on the grass and this is very unpleasant for the sportsmen and women.

“There have been instances of cars being driven onto the parking area, the dogs pushed out and the owner calling them back after a few minutes.

“It was suggested that a notice be installed stating if dogs were allowed to roam freely and dog mess not removed then dogs could be banned from the grounds.”

Cllr Wilson said the NPFA was told the same problem was happening at Greenfield Crescent.

 Any consultation could seek feedback from residents on other areas.

Residents are being asked for their views on banning people from letting their dogs loose on public playing fields.