WYRE Forest dog owners are being warned again they could be fined for failing to control their pets in the Jubilee Gardens.

The District Council are reminding people that dogs must be kept on a lead in the Bewdley town centre gardens, with owners also required to carry waste removal gear to clean up after them.

Dogs are also restricted from children's play areas, splashpad and paddling pools across the Wyre Forest.

This follows new dog control orders introduced last October to make owners aware of their responsibilities and keep the gardens 'safe, clean and looking good.

Enforcement teams have been promoting the controls and leaflets have been produced outlining the measures and fixed penalty notices of £100 or a fine of up to £1000 for residents who fail to comply.

A survey on the controls saw overwhelming support in favour of the controls, with 1,000 Wyre Forest folk participating and attending face to face consultations meetings last June.

The orders are set out in a Public Spaces Protection Order which gives the council powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Cabinet Member for Operational Services Councillor Rebecca Vale said: “I’m pleased that the vast majority of dog owners in the district accept that clearing up after their pets, having the means to clean up and keeping them on leads in certain areas are reasonable.

“We are fortunate in Wyre Forest to have many open spaces, nature reserves and riverside walks where dogs can be let off the lead, so long as they are under control.

"The vast majority appreciate that Jubilee Gardens, with its beautifully laid out flower beds, ornamental fishpond and outdoor theatre, and Kidderminster Cemetery are not suitable places for dogs to be off the lead.”

For more information people can visit www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/dogs or call 01562 732528.