A Mearns councillor has backed the “carrot and stick” approach being taken towards the scourge of dog fouling.
Stonehaven’s Ian Mollison said the council’s action plan includes empowering more staff to issue fines and making dog waste bags available free of charge.
The plan was recently approved by the council’s infrastructure services committee after locals called for action by the local authority.
Mr Mollison said: “It is a combination of carrot and stick. As well as being unsightly and a nuisance when it gets on your shoes, dog mess carries a health risk.
“At present the three dog wardens and four community wardens can issue fixed penalty notices this will rise shortly to more than 40 council staff.
“The penalty is £40, which rises to £60 if not paid within 28 days. On a more positive note, the council hopes to develop partnerships with local communities.
“The clean dog walking campaign has been successful in some areas.
“Dog waste bags are provided free of charge by the council, available from environmental health officers, and it is hoped to expand this service to more council offices. Additional dog waste bins are being provided in appropriate locations.
“Dog waste bags can also be deposited in any dual purpose council litter bin. Areas which are particularly prone to fouling will be prioritised.”
The number of complaints received by the Environmental Health Service has risen in recent years. The service has three dog wardens who work closely with local communities, raising awareness, investigating complaints and taking enforcement action where appropriate.
They carry out a wide range of duties and, bearing in mind the size of Aberdeenshire, it is a challenge to allocate resources. The anti-dog fouling action plan outlines current and proposed activities to tackle the issue.
The committee heard further preparatory work needs to be carried out prior to full implementation of the plan, requiring discussions with other services and partners. It is intended to take a balanced approach to reducing dog fouling in public places, including authorising more officers to issue fixed penalty notices.
It is envisaged that full implementation will start in early autumn, and councillors agreed to prepare a further report on progress by the end of the year.