Council analysing submissions on proposed dog rules

Christchurch City Council has received 250 submissions on its proposed new dog control policy and bylaw, with 30 submitters wishing to speak to the hearings panel.

The hearings panel will meet from 5 April. People who have indicated they wish to be heard in support of their submission will be allocated time to address the panel.

Council's Animal Management Team Leader Mark Vincent said there are a mix of opinions on the proposed new dog control policy and bylaw, with some asking for greater controls and restrictions, and others arguing that restrictions should be lifted.

"We'll look at all the submissions and see what we can come up with to balance these views. We are really happy that so many people have taken the time to share their views and tell us how they think we can make our city and rural areas better for dogs, their owners, and everyone," Mr Vincent says.

From a preliminary look at the submissions, there is support for the proposal requiring dog owners to carry plastic bags when out with their dogs in public places – a policy aimed at keeping streets, walkways and waterways free of dog poo. Submissions have raised questions about the need for more rubbish bins and enforcement of this matter.

Views on leashing dogs along shared pathways in Hagley Park, and the proposal to open more areas of the Central City to leashed dogs, have been also mixed, with submissions ranging from strongly supportive to strongly against.

After the hearings in April, the panel will make recommendations to Council about the final form of the new policy and bylaw.

The current (2008) dog control policy and bylaw will remain in force until the Council makes a decision on the proposals.

Consultation on the proposed new Dog Control Policy 2016 and associated proposed Dog Control Bylaw 2016 opened on 1 February and closed on 4 March 2016.

ENDS

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