Brent Council has instituted strict regulations requiring dogs to be kept on leads at Paddington Old Cemetery, imposing fines of up to £1,000 for violations. The decision comes in response to 74 complaints regarding dog behavior in the cemetery, where Paddington Bear creator Michael Bond is interred. However, a consultation revealed that 61% of respondents preferred allowing dogs off leads. Critics, including representatives from local pet owner groups, argue that the council disregarded community input, claiming the process lacked genuine democratic engagement and transparency.
Brent shamelessly steamrolled the residents yet again. It is really quite astonishing how little regard they have for the democratic process and gives further weight to the argument that the consultation was a pure formality and the decision was predetermined.
We feel that Brent Council has ridden roughshod over the consultation process and is not skilled at listening to the local community. We really encourage better local engagement, so welcome the idea of bringing users together to find solutions for this much-loved place.
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