New rules have been brought in restricting the number of dogs a person can walk in Windsor Great Park at once.
The new measures, introduced by the Windsor Estate (part of the Crown Estate) are intended to ‘improve and safeguard the visitor experience’ across Windsor Great Park and Forests.
Under the new revised code of conduct, all dog walkers will not be allowed to walk more than four dogs at a time. In addition, they cannot meet with visitors that would lead to a group of more than eight dogs.
Finally, dog walkers must ‘always be in control of their dog, ensuring that it is always in sight.’
These rules will come into effect a month from now, from Monday, February 25.
Moreover, all dog walking businesses exercising in Windsor Great Park will require a Professional Dog Walking Permit from Monday, March 31.
Windsor Estate say these new measures come ‘as part of a continued commitment to environmental and ecological best practice’ with approximately 85 per cent of the Windsor Estate protected under an environmental designation.
This includes Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and Special Protection Area (SPA) for the Conservation of Wild Birds.
With more than 5.5million visitors to Windsor Great Park, these regulations are ‘to ensure that all visitors, including dogs, have a safe and enjoyable visit and help to safeguard vital habitats and rare flora and fauna on the Windsor Estate.’
The new Commercial Dog Walking Scheme ‘ensures businesses are complying with health and safety standards for their staff and dogs, and that they are fully insured.’
Meanwhile, the permit scheme ‘brings professional dog walking in line with other businesses that operate in Windsor Great Park and Forest.’
Paul Sedgwick, deputy ranger of Windsor Great Park says:
“We have always welcomed well-behaved dogs and their owners to enjoy the Windsor Estate, a space that is shared by many other visitor user groups and wildlife. These new measures have been designed to allow everyone to continue to enjoy the space safely and responsibly.”
The revised code is being introduced alongside a new permit scheme covering commercial dog walking organisations.
Changes also affect Swinley Forest and Buttersteep Forest.
Measures were developed in consultation with Government departments, local councils, landowners, Battersea Cats and Dog Home, The Kennel Club, The Dogs Trust, and local dog walking businesses.
Scott Fryer, policy manager for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home said:
“We welcome the new code of conduct for Windsor Great Park, designed so these wonderful places can continue to be enjoyed responsibly by everyone.”
“The code promotes responsible and reasonable practices like keeping dogs under control, respecting designated on-lead areas, and properly disposing of waste.
“By following these sensible rules, we can help preserve these natural environments, while ensuring all visitors have a safe and peaceful experience.”
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