Decision on dogs was sensible

Yesterday, in company with other dog owners, I came to the borough council meeting as an observer. Our attendance was prompted by interest in the discussion of the Draft Dog Control Order.

Several councillors spoke about the reactions of people they represent and it seems that the primary concern is not about allowing dogs to run off the lead, but that a minority of owners are failing to clear up after their pets, which is an understandable point of view.

After these points were made, the result of the council vote was that the status quo is to be maintained and dogs are still to be allowed to exercise off the lead.

I believe I echo the thoughts of the vast majority of people who use the Racecourse and Ifton Meadows when I say that it was a good and sensible decision.

It is encouraging to know that OBC can make its own mind up about matters that are important to the public they serve, even though this type of local legislation is being introduced in many other areas across England. This is local democracy at work and is to be commended.

I believe particular thanks should go to Mr David Jones (assistant chief executive) for his recommendation to exclude the two specific areas from the draft order.

Thanks to all the councillors who followed Mr Jones's common sense lead and thanks also to the hundreds of people who made their feelings known to the council by letter, petition and e-mail.

Special thanks also go to Mayor Neil Arthan, who not only moved the relevant matter up the agenda, but allowed the assembled members of the public to leave at its conclusion. Thank you, one and all.

Derek Wheeler, Oswestry