Council to consult the public over plans to tackle dog fouling

A PUBLIC consultation has been launched in Bridgend over plans to tackle dog fouling.

Bridgend County Borough Council is looking at making a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on all public places in the county.

The order would mean new rules for anyone in charge of a dog.

Failing to remove dog poo from a public place would result in a £100 fine and be a criminal offence.

Failing to carry poo bags or another suitable means of removing the faeces for “proper disposal” would also result in a £100 fine and be a criminal offence.

And failing to put your dog on a lead when directed to do so by an author- ised officer of the council would similarly result in a £100 fine and be a criminal offence.

BCBC said it would be introducing dog bag dispensing units in popular dog walking areas across the borough.

It stated that proper disposal meant either in a council street litter bin, with the householder’s general household waste, or in a suitable compost vessel.

According to council officers, an exemption might be included within the order for people with a disability, adding that the order did not apply to the normal activities of working dogs, such as those used by the emergency services.

BCBC said it wanted to crack down on the “irresponsible behaviour” of a “small minority of dog owners”.

Council officers have previously said dog fouling prompts hundreds of complaints every year with playing fields having to be checked for dog poo before they can be used.

Dog fouling carries serious health risks - it can lead to toxocariasis in humans which can cause serious illness and even blindness.

The consultation ends on February 26 with a report going before cabinet on April 16.

For more details or to complete the survey visit bridgend.gov.uk, call 01656 643664 or visit the civic offices in Angel Street, Bridgend.