The Harrow Council cabinet approved new rules for dog owners in Bentley Priory Nature Reserve in last weeks meeting.
The decision followed a consultation in which more than 60% of respondents supported the plans.
Starting 1 August 2024, three areas in the nature reserve will have new restrictions for dogs. A second consultation revealed that two-thirds of respondents want dogs on leads in specific parts of the parkland. These changes aim to reduce anti-social behaviour related to uncontrolled dogs and to protect local wildlife.
The decision to reconsult on the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) came after concerns from locals that the initial consultation was not widely known.
Cllr Pritesh Patel, the new Cabinet Member for Cleaner Streets & Public Safety, said: “The safety of our residents and wildlife is a top priority for us. We want to make sure our parks and open spaces are enjoyed by everyone.
“Residents have told us that they had concerns regarding the behaviour of some loose dogs around people and animals at Bentley Priory.
“Following our thorough consultation earlier this year, I am confident that this PSPO will assist us in addressing issues of nuisance behaviour in this area, which is designated an area of special scientific interest and nature reserve, and a popular local beauty spot enjoyed by so many of us.”
Harrow Council said that more than 2,000 people responded to the consultation. Two-thirds who responded were dog owners. While more than half (55%) supported the original PSPO plans for dogs on leads everywhere in Bentley Priory nature reserve, more people (65%) were in favour of dogs on leads just in three specific areas.
From 1 August, dogs must be on leads in Deer Path Corridor and in Spring Meadow between 1 April and 31 July. Dogs are prohibited from entering ponds or watercourses in specific areas.
Harrow’s environmental enforcement team, provided by APCOA, will educate park users about the new rules over the summer. From 1 August, those ignoring the restrictions will face a £100 fixed penalty notice.
Signage in the park will show the restricted areas. Dogs will still be able to roam off lead in other areas of Bentley Priory.
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