Caerphilly County Borough Council is to introduce a dog ban in children’s playgrounds.
The local authority is planning to introduce dog control orders in 122 enclosed children’s play areas and multi-use games areas.
Rob Hartshorn, head of public protection, said: “Responsible dog owners will already realise that children’s play areas are not suitable for dog walking, this order will enable the council to target those who are irresponsible, making play areas cleaner and safer.”
The council has said it does not wish to alienate dog owners and that the proposals will be subject to public consultation before being implemented.
If such a ban is introduced, then dog owners could face a fine of up to £1,000 for letting their dog in a banned area.
The proposed ban is in response to the 2011 Household Survey by the council which found that 49% of people felt that dog fouling was a big problem in their neighbourhood.
In total 122 areas could be covered by the Dog Control Order, it is hoped the new legislation will enable officers to issue more fines/
The matter will be discussed by the council’s Living Environment Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday March 20.