Swindon Council want to renew public space protection order for dog fouling
But without enforcement what is the point?
Public Spaces Protection Order on Dog Fouling – Renewal Consultation
❓Where is the enforcement?
Swindon Borough Council is currently consulting on the renewal of the Borough Wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) relating to dog fouling and the exclusion of dogs from enclosed children’s play areas, except for assistance dogs.
There are no proposed changes to the existing order.
The PSPO gives authorised officers the power to issue Fixed Penalty Notices to individuals who fail to pick up after their dogs. In more serious or repeated cases, this may result in prosecution. The order exists to protect public health, particularly that of young children, and to maintain clean, safe public spaces.
However, I must raise a concern shared by many residents: there appears to be little to no visible enforcement. Despite multiple reports from both myself and others, I am not aware of any consistent presence from dog wardens across the Borough. Residents frequently contact me to report incidents, but enforcement action seems to be lacking.
The effectiveness of any PSPO relies not only on the wording of the order but on its active enforcement. I would strongly encourage residents to respond to the consultation and share their own observations and concerns.
👉 Please make your views known via the survey below, and feel free to provide us with any feedback directly.
The consultation closes on 20th July.
Vinay Manro