MEMBERS of the public are urged to share their views on whether powers to tackle dog fouling in County Durham should be extended.

In 2017, Durham County Council introduced a public space protection order (PSPO) that made it an offence to allow a dog to foul without picking it up or to allow a dog to stray.

The rules cover all public spaces and play areas and allow authorised staff to request that dogs are put on leads where necessary. They apply to all dogs, except trained assistance dogs, and also aim to tackle dog-related antisocial behaviour and irresponsible dog ownership.

According to council bosses, the order has led to reductions in stray dog reports, dog fouling service requests and dog fouling warden investigations.

The PSPO is due to expire in June and the council is consulting the public on whether to extend it for three years. Consultation at durham.gov.uk/consultation closes on Friday, April 24.