Fury at council's 'cash grab' over £450 charge to walk dogs in local park

A council has sparked fury with plans to charge locals to walk their dog in a park. The controversial scheme has been slammed as a "desperate cash-grab" and there are concerns the policy could devastate people's incomes.

Bristol City Council is proposing a move that would require dog walkers to pay £450 annually for access to a single park. Meanwhile, fitness instructors and yoga teachers would face the same fee. Those who need access to multiple parks across the city would have to pay £900 yearly. The policy excludes free community groups like Parkrun.

As reported by GB News, the council, which is led by Tony Dyer of the Green Party, initially planned to enforce the fees in October. However, the move has been criticised as it will affect professionals who rely on the outdoor spaces for their work.

Tom Renhard, Bristol Labour's leader, said: "This is nothing more than a desperate cash-grab. If the Green-Lib Dem administration wants more funding, it needs to look elsewhere."

He added: "This barking mad policy will raise a paltry sum but could have a devastating effect on people's livelihoods. This policy needs to be scrapped."

Bristol Conservative leader Mark Weston labelled the move "absolutely bonkers". However, the Greens, who became the largest Bristol City Council party following a by-election in February 2023, argue the plan was initially conceived by Labour in 2018.

Labour members have denied this narrative, attributing responsibility to the current leadership. The proposal has been temorarily suspended, with Mr Weston reiterating the importance of promoting outdoor space usage.

Mr Weston said: "It made no sense when it was initially suggested by Labour in 2021, and it makes even less sense now in 2025."

He continued: "I'm glad that they have at least temporarily shelved it, and they should now consign it to the dustbin of stupid political history."