Dog walkers in Merton could be banned from taking out more than four dogs at a time under new laws.

Merton Council has launched a consultation in response to what they say is a growing number of concerned residents and park users. It said there is a growing number of dog-related problems in the borough's public spaces.

The council is considering making Public Space Protection orders (PSPOs) to tackle the issues. These would include a restriction on the number of dogs that can be walked at one time in all public open spaces and an order that would direct dog walkers to put their dog/s on a lead when asked to by an authorised officer.

Wimbledon Common has its own bylaws and would not be subject to these PSPOs, although Morden Hall Park and Mitcham Common would be.

The consultation also asks whether residents and dog walkers agree an order to prohibit dog fouling, and another to set up 'dog exclusion areas' such as playgrounds and enclosed/fenced play or sports areas, should be drawn up.

PSPOs are a new measure which would replace some existing legislation and introduce wider discretionary powers to deal with dog-related problems. The orders can be enforced by fixed-penalty notices and prosecution.

To find out more about the proposed PSPOs visit: www.merton.gov.uk/dogcontrolorders

The consultation will end on October 30.