THE controversial issue of whether dogs may have to be kept on a lead in the nature reserve of Stanpit Marsh has caused ripples in the community.

Some dog owners are unhappy with the results of the public consultation on the reserve’s draft management plan, as it has led to a debate on the issue of leads.

Nearly 80 per cent of the 220 respondents felt a practical solution to the problem of dogs was a lead policy, with 65 per cent of those people wanting to see a change in the existing byelaw.

Sally Sanford, a clinical animal behaviourist from Stanpit, said: “The space for dog owners to walk responsibly has already been reduced – the fencing off of the Two Riversmeet Golf Course and recently the transformation of the old sports arena at Two Riversmeet.

“The current rules over control and the problems of dogs fouling on the adjoining recreation ground could be more effectively enforced by CCTV cameras.”

She added: “I note that the largest user group – ie dog owners – are not represented on the Stanpit Marsh Advisory Panel.” Purewell and Stanpit ward councillor Ray Nottage said: “I have had some letters from concerned dog owners and walkers about the review of the dog policy for the SSSI at Stanpit Marsh.

“The claim that dog walkers and owners had no representation on the advisory committee or that they had no voice cannot be supported as residents associations and the Friends of Stanpit Marsh were deeply involved in the process.

“I am sorry the biggest complainants appear to be suggesting they were excluded from contribution and that there was an undercurrent of a weird conspiracy.

“This I absolutely reject. The whole process was transparent and followed council protocol.”