THE level of freedom dogs are allowed on Ilminster council land could be set to change.

The town council’s Open Spaces Committee has agreed to do a widespread consultation to find out what people think about allowing dogs in the open spaces areas owned or managed by them.

At present dogs are allowed, off the lead, in all the recreation areas including children’s play areas.

The chairman of the committee, Cllr Stuart Shepherd, said: “A number of concerns have been raised with councillors about dogs in the recreation areas.

"Some people are concerned that the places where they can take their dogs are becoming more and more limited and they are concerned to make sure that the great space in the middle of Ilminster is open to them, other people are worried about the irresponsible behaviour of some people who fail to control their dogs and also those who do not clean up after their dogs.”