Dogs face restrictions after incidents in park

Dogs without leads could soon be banned from a Leeds park following multiple complaints about unruly pets urinating on anglers and their fishing equipment.

Leeds City Council has proposed bringing in a public space protection order (PSPO) at Tarnfield Park, in Yeadon, which would see dog walkers fined if their animal was not restrained.

A survey consulting residents over the move said there had been issues with dogs going to the toilet on tents and equipment belonging to people fishing in the park's picturesque lake, which is known locally as Yeadon Tarn.

One local councillor said introducing the PSPO would be a "sensible move".

A PSPO banning dogs without leads is already in place at several public venues across Leeds, including two golf courses, the city's urban bike park in Middleton, tennis courts, play areas and crematoria.

Many of these were first introduced in 2018 under legislation that can be extended every three years.

The council has proposed continuing with the PSPOs in these locations, as well as expanding it to other areas, including Tarnfield Park.

The park is home to a bowling green, BMX track, children’s playground and a water sports activity centre.

The council's survey said: "In recent years, complaints have been received in relation to dogs urinating on fishermen’s bivouacs and equipment, close to the lake.

"Advisory signage has been in place requesting dog owners to keep their dogs under control.

"However, complaints have continued, and it is therefore proposed to include a requirement in the PSPO to keep dogs on leads at all times in the area of the park and tarn."

Liberal Democrat councillor for Otley and Yeadon, Ryk Downes, said he was in favour of the idea.

He said: "I think it is a sensible move. The majority of dog owners are absolutely fine, but you do get the odd one or two who cause problems.

"There are other places within the area, such as Otley Chevin, where you can take your dog off a lead.

"As Tarnfield Park is an environment where there's lots of activities going on, it makes sense given the complaints we've had over the years."

Similar measures may also be introduced to the rose garden at Western Flatts Park in Wortley, the gardens at Springhead Park in Rothwell.

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