MADAM, following the correspondence in last week's edition of the Ross Gazette concerning signage and bins for dog poop, the RoWToP Progress Group would like to make the following comments.
A member of our group recently contacted Craig Sandman of the Community Protection Team (Herefordshire Council) to request that dedicated bins for dog poop be provided at the end of Cleeve Lane and around the playing fields at Wilton. He received the following response:
"There is no requirement now for specific dog fouling bins, because as a council we use normal rubbish bins for the collection and disposal of dog faeces.
"Unfortunately, what most people seem to do is they collect their dog faeces, but then they feel uncomfortable carrying the bags, so they then commit the offence of littering by disposing of the bag into a nearby hedge. The whole of Herefordshire is now covered by the Dog Control Orders, and this makes it an offence for people not to collect dog faeces, and people can be fined £50 for failing to do so. The offence of littering, however, carries the fine of £80."
It is a great pity that so many dog owners are unwilling to take responsibility for the lawful disposal of their pet's poop. It was an issue that was raised by many residents during the Town Plan consultation process, but it is hard to know how to tackle it effectively as enforcement is very difficult. The situation will only improve when residents do take responsibility and act for the good of the whole community.
With regard to signage, the Town Council has set up a sub-committee, including Progress Group members and others, to look at this issue. Its work is ongoing but has already achieved some improvement.
Caroline Utting, Secretary,
Ross Town Plan Progress Group