Irresponsible owners could be fined £1,000
MAKING A STAND: From left, Jack Owen, wardens Nathan Mitchell and Bradley Smith and resident Pauline Ingram.
The introduction of on-the-spot fines for dog fouling will show “irresponsible” owners their actions will not be tolerated, say campaigners.
Areas of Sudbury have been blighted by a rise in the amount of dog excrement being left on streets and footpaths in recent weeks.
The problem, which is particularly bad around Quay Lane, has prompted the town council to apply for a Community Safety Accreditation Scheme.
This will give some council staff the power to fine those who fail to clean up after their dog up to £1,000.
Pauline Ingram, from Quay Lane, said she was heavily in support of the idea.
“I strongly believe this is a good thing – I am forever clearing up after people’s dogs,” said the 73-year-old.
“It has got worse recently and I am sick of it. These irresponsible owners should not be allowed to keep dogs if they don’t clean up after them properly.”
Sudbury mayor Jack Owen said he hoped the prospect of a fine would “shake” people up.
“To fine people is a last resort, but if people are too inconsiderate to have any concern for young children and others who walk these paths, then that is what is needed,” he said.
“These owners do not understand the problems and disease that can be spread and we are not prepared to tolerate this mess any more.”
In an effort to catch the culprits, the town’s community wardens have stepped up patrols in affected areas.
“We seem to be constantly blighted and are clearing piles on a regular basis,” said Bradley Smith.
“The fines are a positive step as we aim to catch those responsible and clamp down on dog fouling.”
Mr Smith added that anyone who had an issue with dog fouling was invited to attend Sudbury Town Council’s annual meeting on March 19.
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Weather for Sudbury
Tuesday 21 May 2013
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Light rain
Temperature: 7 C to 12 C
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