Council considering penalty notices at Northampton county park after several sheep attacked by dogs

Several sheep have been attacked by dogs off the lead at Upton Country Park.

A new protection order could be implemented at a Northampton country park after a number of incidents where sheep have been attacked by dogs off the lead.

Northampton Borough Council is considering changes to a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which covers Upton Country Park where a new section of the land was opened earlier this year.

Since the opening there have been several incidents of dogs off leads attacking sheep, despite clear signage in place across the park stipulating that dogs should remain on leads at all times.

A change to the PSPO would mean breaches of this guidance are subject to a £100 fixed-penalty notice. Anyone who fails to pay this fine, could face court action with a potential fine of £1,000.

Cllr Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for environment, said: “We’ve opened this extensive new section of the country park for the benefit of everyone.

“Parts of the park are fenced off to protect the sheep grazing that land, though we’ve allowed public access so walkers and cyclists can enjoy the wider landscape in that area.

“It is vital that dog walkers are responsible and keep their pets on a lead, and if we are able to make changes to the order in that area, this will be enforceable.

“Letting dogs roam free in areas where sheep are grazing is unacceptable and it would be better for everyone if pet owners took a responsible approach.”

In order to make the relevant changes to the order, the council’s cabinet would need to approve the recommendation at its meeting on December 16, then a public consultation would be required.

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