Stratford-on-Avon District Council is consulting on a change to the Dog Fouling Order, which could see a wider public area in the District cleaner if it is accepted.
The proposed land affected by the Act is that which is open to the air and accessible to the public within the District boundaries with the exception of land owned by the Forestry Commission*.
All residents in the District are welcome to comment in writing by 31 January 2009 to:
Steve Haresnape, Environmental Protection Manager,
Stratford-on-Avon District Council,
Elizabeth House, Church Street,
Stratford-upon-Avon,
Warwickshire, CV37 6HX
Dog owners are currently guided by the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 to clear up after their dog if it fouls, if caught not doing so they could be fined up to £1,000. This Act has now been replaced by the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2004.
Under the new legislation the rules are to be enforced by the District Council, and Parish Councils will be given the delegated power to issue Fixed Penalty Notices following training.
Dog mess can carry various types of bacteria that can be harmful to adults and children. Some bacteria has the potential to cause blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes or mouth.
When walking your dog, always carry a poop scoop or suitable bag to pick up your dogs faeces. It can be placed in a dog bin or, if it is not possible, place in a normal litter bin or take it home and put in your own waste bin.
The District Council relies on members of the public to help reduce dog fouling in the area. Says Councillor Simon Jackson, Executive Portfolio Holder for Environment.
When they see someone not picking up their dogs foul they should contact the Dog Warden/Animal Welfare Officer, who can then investigate. This will help to maintain a cleaner, safer environment for everyone, which is one of the District Councils main objectives.
Stratford-on-Avon District Councils Dog Warden/Animal Welfare Officer 01789 260835 - all calls are confidential.
*Areas exempt of the proposed changes include land that is placed at the disposal of the Forestry Commissioners under section 39(1) of the Forestry Act 1967, (Oversley Wood at Alcester, Coughton Wood at Alcester and Mays Wood at Henley in Arden).
