Professional dog walkers and dog owners are being encouraged to respond to a public consultation that could reshape how dogs are exercised in parts of Brighton & Hove.
The proposals, put forward by Brighton & Hove City Council as part of a review of its Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), include a ban on professional dog walkers operating in Blakers Park, alongside renewed and extended dog restrictions in other public spaces. While the consultation is local, many in the canine sector believe the outcome could influence how other councils approach commercial dog walking in the future.
Brighton & Hove City Council is consulting on a series of Public Space Protection Orders designed to address a range of issues across the city, including dog control, anti-social behaviour, drones, camping and disposable barbecues.
Among the proposals is a new restriction that would prohibit professional dog walkers from walking dogs as part of their business in Blakers Park. The council is also proposing to extend the park’s existing dog-free area to include the fenced section.
The consultation also includes renewing seasonal dog restrictions on selected beaches and maintaining a number of existing dog control measures elsewhere across the city.
According to the council, the proposals are intended to balance the needs of different users of public spaces while responding to local concerns raised about Blakers Park.
However, the proposals have prompted criticism from Brighton Dogwatch and some local professional dog walkers.
The campaign group has urged dog owners to take part in the consultation, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to justify banning professional dog walkers from the park. It also believes the proposals could increase costs for dog walking businesses, force walkers into other parks, and create a precedent that could eventually be adopted by other local authorities.
The issue follows a long-running debate over Blakers Park. Last year, residents successfully petitioned the council to restore the park’s fenced area as a dedicated dog-free space, with the council agreeing to consider the matter as part of its wider PSPO review.
The consultation remains open until 7 August 2026, after which Brighton & Hove City Council will review responses before deciding whether to implement the proposed restrictions.
For professional dog walkers, dog owners and the wider canine industry, the outcome could prove significant. If approved, Brighton’s approach may become a model considered by other councils looking to review dog access and commercial dog walking in public spaces.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO)?
A Public Space Protection Order is a legal power available to local authorities to help manage activities in public spaces that are considered to have a detrimental effect on the local community. PSPOs can include restrictions relating to dogs, anti-social behaviour and other activities.
What is Brighton & Hove City Council proposing?
The council is consulting on a number of changes to its PSPOs, including a proposal to prohibit professional dog walkers from operating in Blakers Park, extend the park’s dog-free area and renew existing dog-related restrictions across the city.
Has the ban been introduced?
No. The proposals are currently subject to public consultation. The council will consider all responses before making a final decision.
When does the consultation close?
The consultation closes on 7 August 2026.
Why is this important?
Although the consultation only affects Brighton & Hove, the proposals are being closely watched by professional dog walkers and the wider canine sector as they could influence future policies adopted by other local authorities.
Useful links
- Share your views on dog exclusion areas (consultation)
https://yourvoice.brighton-hove.gov.uk/en-GB/projects/dogs-exclusion-public-protection-order-pspo - Public Space Protection Orders (Brighton & Hove City Council)
https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/travel-and-road-safety/roads-and-highways/public-space-protection-orders-pspos
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