Swindon CSP

Public Spaces Protection Orders were introduced as part of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. If a PSPO is breached the perpetrator may receive a £100 on the spot fine or fines of up to £1,000 if the case goes to court.

A PSPO is designed to ensure that people can enjoy public spaces without the threat of anti-social behaviour.

Having received multiple complaints about out of control or nuisance dogs at peak times in the most popular areas of Lydiard Park over the last several years a Public Spaces Protection Order was proposed, consulted upon and signed off in August 2016. The measures are designed to make sure boisterous and excitable dogs don’t spoil the enjoyment of the park for families and other groups enjoying barbeques, picnics or playing sports. Similar restrictions are often applied to beaches for the same reasons.

The Lydiard Park Public Spaces Protection Order can be found here.

The areas covered by the on lead order are those that are exceptionally busy in the summer months. There are large areas of ground immediately adjacent to these where dogs can run off lead.

The Park is also a National Heritage Site and is actively managed at these times with specific events being held in these areas (theatre performances etc.).

We do not think it is appropriate for the entire park to be included in the order - It is important for most dogs’ physical and mental well-being to have off lead exercise. Many dogs require vigorous exercise that would not be possible on lead and this could therefore compromise their health and behaviour. They will also continue to welcomed in the majority of the park albeit on lead in peak areas and times to ensure they included in their owner’s activities.

Owners/handlers must still keep control of their dogs whether on or off lead. Any complaints of dogs acting dangerously out of control should be passed as soon as possible to the police (101) and/or Swindon Borough Council (01793 445500).