In Shepton Mallet, dog owners are at the heart of a growing debate over leash laws in Collett Park, driven by conflicting regulations.

While the town enjoys ample countryside routes where dogs can roam freely, the Town Council seeks to maintain Collett Park as a leashed area to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors.

Historically, a bylaw dictated that dogs must be kept on leads within the park. However, this was complicated by a more recent Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) issued by Somerset Council, which allows dogs off their leads unless a licensed officer instructs otherwise. This newer regulation has effectively rendered the original bylaw unenforceable due to a significant lack of licensed officer presence in the park, leading to infrequent enforcement of the leash mandate.

This situation has led to safety concerns among park users, with many expressing apprehension about encountering unleashed dogs. Issues raised include fears of dogs, mobility challenges, and the presence of young children or reactive pets who might not cope well with off-leash animals.

In response, the Town Council is actively exploring ways to clarify and enforce leash laws effectively. This may include reinstating the original bylaw or introducing new measures that can be more consistently applied, despite the limitations posed by the current PSPO.

To better manage the situation and gather evidence for effective patrolling, Somerset Council recommends recording detailed information during patrols, including the location, time, and details of both the dog and owner. Residents are encouraged to report any issues to [email protected], providing such details to help address incidents of dogs being off-leash where they shouldn't be.

The Town Council's efforts align with the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which underscores the responsibility of owners to keep their dogs under control in public spaces. This legislation supports actions ranging from simple leashing and muzzling requirements to more severe measures in cases of aggression or harm caused by pets.