Council to consult community on dog bans and restrictions

The community will have its say on whether dogs should be prohibited or restricted from Cleveland Markets after Councillors today backed a call from Mayor Karen Williams.

The Mayor asked Councillors at today’s General Meeting to support her Mayoral Minute calling for a review of dogs being restricted at Cleveland Markets as part of Council’s Local Law 2, Register of Animals in Public Places.

Cr Williams said the move followed recent community debate about dogs being prohibited from Cleveland Markets, which was sparked after complaints from residents about dogs being present in the marketplace.

“Dogs have actually not been allowed at the markets since 1997 but, following recent complaints from residents wanting the local law enforced, Council has erected signs to educate the public about the local law; although no infringement notices have been issued,” Cr Williams said.

“Considering the local law has been in place for more than 20 years, I think it is time to ask the community for feedback and we will ultimately be guided by what they tell us.”

Cr Williams congratulated Cleveland Village Traders and market stall holders for bringing attention to the matter, prompting her call for the community to have its say through public consultation.

“As a dog owner myself, I can understand why people would want to take their furry friends to the markets, but I also understand that not everyone is a dog lover and having them around food and children can cause issues,” she said.

“So the best course of action is to ask the community what they want through formal, public consultation.

“While I appreciate the support of my fellow Councillors today, it is important to remember that this review won’t be immediate.

“Also, in order to respect those residents who have asked for the local law to be enforced, the ban on dogs at the markets will remain until the review is finalised.”