UNRULY dogs and irresponsible owners are to be targeted by Christchurch council as part of a consultation due to start in the next few weeks.

Christchurch Borough Council has agreed to go out to consultation regarding changes to a number of dog control issues in the borough.

These include making the Dog Fouling Order apply to all open land and public access, including heathland and marshes.

The dogs on leads order is also proposed to apply from April 1 to September 30 between Avon Beach and Friars Cliff, when on the promenade, cliff steps and pathways, Avon Beach car park and High-cliffe Cliff Top car park.

It would also relate to Steamer Point Nature Reserve, Highcliffe Castle, Druitt Gardens, Mudeford Wood disabled access path, Christchurch Priory Gardens and Convent Walk.

As part of the proposed Dog Exclusion Order, it will be an offence for dogs to enter all enclosed play areas, Jumpers Cemetery and, from April 1 to Sept-ember 30, the beach from a point opposite the end of the car park at Avon Beach.

The council also want to beef up a dog on leads by direction order which requires people to put their dog on a lead when they are directed to do so by an authorised officer.

Cllr Margaret Phipps said: “We get a lot of complaints about dog fouling and control and they often come in through a PACT (Partners and Communities Together) panel.

“There are many responsible dog owners out there and that is why we are going out to consultation.

“It appears the problem is worse in urban areas than in the countryside but nobody wants to be walking and step in muck.

“We will be asking as many people as possible what they think.

“We’re very aware there are dog owners that are very, very responsible.”

Last week, council officers were at sites encouraging people to pick up after their dogs.