I know this is not Hornimans, and only just over the border of Forest Hill into SE26, but thought you might like to see the Lewisham Council perspective on dog control.... this time in Mayow Park...
This reply follows a complaint from me regarding the number of uncontrolled dogs, and the risk to other park goers, their children and dogs...
Thank you for your report regarding Mayow Park and the issues you are encountering in relation to out of control dogs. I do understand your concerns and I hope my response demonstrates we do take your issues seriously.
Glendale manage the parks on behalf of Lewisham Borough Council. In terms of enforcement we are led by current bylaws. Below is an extract for your information.
"48. No person shall in the ground walk, exercise or bring any dog in any part of the ground:
unless such dog is under proper control;
and in any event in such a manner as to cause danger or nuisance or give reasonable grounds for annoyance to other persons in the ground."
Unfortunately bylaws are very difficult when leading to prosecution due to its cost and evidence required. It is also very subjective when ascertaining whether a dog is under control or not.
I have cc'd Lewisham Council's Animal Welfare department who have patrolled the parks and raised awareness to dog owners of the impact of dog fouling and dogs under control. I am sure this park is on their list, although their resources are very limited. They have been very helpful when we have reported incidents.
You may be interested to know that Mayow Park enjoys a very active user group who have a lot of input into what they would like for the park. The user group meets quarterly and the next meet date is 18th June 2008.
This year could also see the introduction of new Dog Control Order Acts that will make certain areas Dog-Free zones and more power for enforcement officers with regards to dogs out of control. It may be a consideration for the Act to make the main field a Dog-Free zone or Dogs-on-Lead Area and this would be in conjuction with the user group.
Although the above may not solve your current issues I thank you for raising them and I hope you can continue to use and enjoy Mayow Park.
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