Hunt hounds 'must have leads'

Hounds being used on hunts in Shrewsbury will have to be kept on leads when they are on public highways, councillors have confirmed.

The issue was raised by Labour group leader Danny Moore at last night's full meeting of Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council.

Councillor Moore had tabled a question raising the issue of dogs crossing main roads near Shrewsbury Livestock Market on the traditional Boxing Day hunt, to seek clarification over how the rules of the new dog control orders were being enforced.

Portfolio holder Councillor Judith Williams last night confirmed hounds were not exempt from the rules.

It is the latest issue to be raised over the controversial orders, which were were were rubber-stamped in December after councillors back-tracked on a bylaw which would have seen dogs kept on leads in Shrewsbury's Quarry Park.

Councillor Williams said: "Under the order, dogs used in hound and equestrian activities are not exempt.

"They should be kept on a lead on all public roads, carriageways, adjoining pavements and verges managed by a highway authority, local authority or a housing association."

Meanwhile, borough councillors are investigating the use of the livestock market after a row broke out over whether county hunts should be able to meet at the venue.

Councillor David Roberts, portfolio holder for investments, said under the terms of the site lease the livestock market could not be used as a gathering point for a hunt.

He added there were several other aspects of the lease with auctioneers Halls which were being looked into by council officials.

Councillor Moore had tabled the question.