DOG walkers will remain banned from part of a Somerset green space for at least two more years following a decision by district councillors.

South Somerset District Council has voted to extend an order first introduced in 2017 to prevent dog fouling and out-of-control pets in Yeovil Country Park.

Pooch owners face stiff penalties if they fail to control their dogs, did not pick up their mess or allow them to enter the pond of Ninesprings play area.

The council’s district executive committee voted yesterday (Thursday, May 12) to extend the orders for a further two years, meaning the restrictions will be carried forward when the new unitary Somerset Council assumes control in April 2023.

Paul Huntington, the council’s environmental health specialist, said there is a legitimate need to extend the orders up to 2024 in light of continuing offences.

He told the committee: “We have a persistently high level of complaints of dog fouling in the public realm, in our country parks and some of the more popular dog-walking areas, which we generally manage by undertaking active patrols using our localities team.

“Without this PSPO, we would not be able to take any formal enforcement action to back up that soft enforcement as and when we get evidence of an offence.”

Cllr Sara Dyke, portfolio holder for the environment, said: “I don’t think this is particularly controversial, but it is much needed.”

Under the order, anyone who allows their dog to foul in Yeovil Country Park can be fined £80, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.