In a significant move to regulate professional dog walking, The Windsor Estate has announced new measures requiring permits and enforcing stricter guidelines for dog walkers operating within its lands, including Windsor Great Park, Swinley Forest, and Buttersteep Forest.
These changes, effective from March 31, 2025, aim to enhance public safety, protect the environment, and ensure a harmonious experience for all visitors. Permit Requirements and Associated Costs
Starting March 31, 2025, all professional dog walking businesses wishing to operate within the specified areas must obtain a Professional Dog Walking Permit. The permit fees are set at £500 for Windsor Great Park and £600 for Swinley and Buttersteep Forests. These fees are intended to ensure that businesses comply with health and safety standards, possess adequate insurance, and align with the operational protocols of other enterprises within the estate.
It’s important to know that the amount of permits is limited
In addition to the permit requirement, a revised Code of Conduct will be implemented from February 25, 2025.Key stipulations include:
- maximum of four dogs per walker at any given time.
- Prohibition of gatherings that result in groups exceeding eight dogs.
- Mandate to keep dogs under control and within sight at all times. These measures are designed to promote responsible dog walking practices, minimize disturbances to wildlife, and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park users. Rationale Behind the New Measures
Why the changes?
The Windsor Estate, with approximately 85% of its area designated under environmental protections such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Protection Areas (SPA), has introduced these regulations to safeguard its delicate ecosystems.
With over 5.5 million visitors to Windsor Great Park and an additional 2 million to Swinley and Buttersteep Forests annually, the estate faces challenges in balancing recreational use with conservation efforts. The new measures aim to mitigate potential negative impacts on vital habitats and rare flora and fauna.
The development of these measures involved consultations with various stakeholders, including government departments, local councils, landowners, and animal welfare organizations such as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, The Kennel Club, and The Dogs Trust. Scott Fryer, Policy Manager for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, expressed support for the new code of conduct, stating that it promotes responsible practices like keeping dogs under control, respecting designated on-lead areas, and properly disposing of waste. He emphasized that by following these sensible rules, visitors can help preserve natural environments while ensuring a safe and peaceful experience for all.
Concerns from Professional Dog Walkers
Despite the estate’s intentions, some professional dog walkers have raised concerns about the new regulations. Sarah Stanford, a dog walker with 18 years of experience from Datchet, near Windsor, argues that limiting the number of dogs to four per walker threatens the viability of her business. She notes that many professionals are insured to walk up to six dogs and questions the basis for the new limit. Stanford also highlights the financial burden posed by the permit fees and expresses frustration over the perceived lack of consultation and short notice for implementing these significant changes. Broader Context and Industry Implications
The introduction of these measures by The Windsor Estate reflects a broader trend towards increased regulation in the professional dog walking industry across the UK landowners and local authorities are implementing policies to manage the impact of commercial dog walking on public spaces and natural habitats. For instance, some land managers have opted to rent private land, such as paddocks or fenced enclosures, to professional dog walkers, providing a controlled environment that benefits all parties involved.
Conclusion
The Windsor Estate’s new regulations for professional dog walkers represent a significant shift in the management of shared public spaces. While aimed at enhancing safety and environmental conservation, these measures have elicited varied responses from stakeholders. Ongoing dialogue between estate management, professional dog walkers, and relevant organizations will be crucial to balance the interests of all parties and ensure the continued enjoyment and preservation of these cherished natural areas.