Salehurst and Robertsbridge Parish Council

Unfortunately, this is the second vacancy, the first of which has already been extensively advertised, resulting in seven applications for consideration for co-option by the Council (scheduled to take place today 19/9/16).

It has therefore been decided to appoint two new Councillors together, from the seven current applicants, once the statutory 14 days has elapsed.

More details in due course.

The only place in the parish that dogs are specifically required to be on a lead is in the Recreation Ground; the only place they are banned completely is the enclosed play area in the Recreation Ground (in fact all enclosed playgrounds in Rother).

In many areas, dogs are completely excluded from entire recreation and/or sports grounds, but the Parish Council chose not to include our Recreation Ground in this Order, preferring the less restrictive (but harder to enforce) order to keep dogs on a lead. This was not an anti dog decision, it was a pro dog decision.

There were many calls for a total ban, for two main reasons. The first was to prevent nuisance to other users, children and adults, who should be free to enjoy the facilities without dogs running about - we frequently had football matches disrupted by over enthusiastic dogs, but of greater concern, numerous incidents of children being chased by dogs whilst playing, not necessarily unfriendly ones, but not all children like dogs, particularly ones they don't know.

The second was to deal with the persistent problem of dog mess, as we all know that a small minority of dog owners are not considerate or responsible and refuse to clear up after their dog (whether on a lead or not, but we have many witnessed examples of very responsible dog walkers who have 'missed' the event because their dog has run ahead, or lagged behind). The only way to ensure no dog mess is to ban dogs completely.

But the Council did not want to do this. It was mindful of the fact that many people, including families with children, like to take their dog with them on a trip to the Rec. Also, dog walkers can provide a valuable, frequent adult presence, helping to keep our children safe. So the decision was made that requiring dogs to be on a lead was an appropriate compromise for an area provided for play and sport.

None of our other public spaces are included in the Order and, in addition to those areas we have a very good network of public footpaths where dogs can be walked.

So please understand and respect that the Recreation Ground is provided for recreational activities for all two legged residents, but not for dogs - although they are welcome to accompany their humans if kept on a lead at all times (and cleaned up after if necessary).