On-the-spot fines for dog owners who fail to clear up after their pet
Powers to issue on-the-spot fines to dog owners who fail to pick up after their pets are set to come into force in Sudbury.
The town council is looking to introduce fines of up to £80 for owners caught leaving dog mess on footpaths and pavements as part of a Community Safety Accreditation Scheme.
Sudbury Town Council has applied to the police for permission to implement the initiative, which would also give some council employees the power to fine people for littering and dropping cigarettes.
Last month, residents around Quay Lane spoke out about the amount of “offensive” dog fouling approaching the Valley Walk and meadows. Sudbury mayor Jack Owen also called on owners to act more responsibly to stop the problem blighting the area.
Community warden Bradley Smith said action was being taken to clamp down on dog fouling.
“At the moment, we do not have enforcement powers but the council is looking into a scheme for fixed penalty notices,” said Mr Smith.
“Wardens will be in the area where dog fouling is a problem – Friars Street and Quay Lane to St Gregory Primary School and Cross Street – a lot more.
“Patrols will be going on and more signs going up.”
Dog walker Colin Eves, from Friars Street, said he had been annoyed to see a footpath from Catesby Meadow to Quay Lane covered in dog mess recently.
“It has been terrible along that path in the past as lots of dogs come along it,” said Mr Eves, who has a labradoodle and poodle.
“I always carry bags, but it is frustrating to see owners not picking up as the ones that do still get the blame.”
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Weather for Sudbury
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Today
Thunderstorm
Temperature: 13 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North
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Light rain
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