Islington Council is preparing to get tough with irresponsible dog owners. <br><br>The authority has launched a consultation on how new powers - known as Dog Control Orders - should be used in the borough. <br><br>The measures mean dogs can be banned from some places, such as children's play areas and sports pitches. <br><br>Owners who fail to clean up after their pets can also be fined. <br><br>Councillor Ruth Polling, Islington Council's Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities, said: "We know how important this issue is for residents, so we're already committed to dealing with irresponsible dog owners. <br><br>"What we need to decide now is how we should apply these orders - and that's where the public can help us." <br><br>These control orders are among a range of measures the council is taking to combat irresponsible dog ownership, in response to Scrutiny Committee report last year.<br><br>The consultation lasts until 11 April. <br><br>Anyone who wants to get involved in the consultation can find out more information and download copies of the consultation brochure, questionnaire and maps of proposed dog free areas from our website at: www.islington.gov.uk/dogs <http://www.islington.gov.uk/dogs>. Copies of these materials will also be available from the Town Hall, Green Living Centre, local libraries and Area Housing Offices. Finally you can email queries to dogs.consultation@islington.gov.uk <mailto:dogs.consultation@islington.gov.uk> or call 020 7527 2000. <br><br>ENDS <br><br>For more information please call Chris Weeks on 020 7527 30325<br><br><br>PICTURE: (L-R) Councillor Ruth Polling, Islington Council's Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities, with Greenspace ranger Fiona MacKenzie with Jazz. <br>
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009