Westbury Town Council to act on dog fouling problem areas

WESTBURY Town Council is asking for help from local residents to help them tackle the issue of dog fouling in their community.

The council is considering the costs of appointing a dedicated dog warden for the town to complement the services already provided by Wiltshire Council, and is appealing to Westbury residents to help identify problem areas.

“Dog fouling is a constant concern on local streets and open spaces,” said town clerk Keith Harvey.

“We know the majority of dog owners are responsible and clear up their dog’s mess. Unfortunately it is the minority who are ruining it for the majority. We need to determine how to respond to complaints about this issue but we need the help of local people to help us tackle the problem.

“There are schemes in areas around the country where voluntary groups work with their local authorities in an effort to educate dog owners, rather than prosecute. We do need the support of local residents to help the town council in its efforts to clean up our town and create a good impression to visitors of our town.”

The council would like people to get in touch with details of problem areas  by emailing info@westburytowncouncil.gov.uk or  calling the office on 01373 822232. Details needed include particular problem areas such as dog fouling on footpaths and pavements, together with areas where there is considered to be a lack of dog/litter bins.

Previously the town council joined forces with Wiltshire Council to launch a poster awareness campaign about dog fouling and currently spends around £1,500 each year on providing free dog bags, however the problem persists and is seemingly getting worse.

Before the town council trials its service it would appreciate the support of local residents in helping to identify those areas in Westbury which they consider to be the worst affected.

Once the town council has gathered and examined all the information supplied, it will report back on the results and advise on its next course of action.