Getting tough on dog fouling
Joint patrols between the Police and City Council staff are being launched to combat the problem of dog fouling in the City.
The 'get tough' campaign is in response to complaints from residents and will focus on known hotspots.
It follows an 'awareness raising' week in Barton and Tredworth, which has one of the highest levels of complaints.
Owners have been told about the risk of potential fines for not clearing up after their pets. Now the joint patrols will be seeking to clamp down on those who ignore that message.
Councillor Kathy Williams, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: "We began the pilot campaign within designated areas of two wards in the City in the summer."
"One of the questions that we have been asking people is if they know that they can use any rubbish bin for dog waste as long as it is bagged. Most people don't know this, so we will look at doing some work on this in the future in order to make better use of the many bins we have."
"We have had a lot of positive feedback about the campaign and we hope to raise awareness throughout the City that littering of any kind will not be tolerated.
"We urge local residents to be vigilant and inform us of any repeat offenders in their area. They can do this by contacting the Council on 01452 396396 or by joining up to the paws on patrol scheme."
Tim Wood, Police Sergeant Barton Street "This is obviously an issue that is of concern to the local community, and we will therefore be taking part in joint patrols in order to engage with dog walkers and take enforcement action where necessary".
Local Authorities have a duty under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 1995.
Those caught can be issued with a fine of up to £70. Non payment of a fine could be referred to court for prosecution.
To join paws on patrol and be the eyes and ears of your area download a membership form from www.safergloucester.co.uk
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