Dog-fouling crackdown targets town commons (From Worcester News)

Dog-fouling crackdown targets town commons

7:20pm Friday 19th October 2012 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed

A CRACKDOWN on dog- fouling in Malvern is being extended to cover some of the most popular spots across the town’s hills and commons.

Malvern Hills District Council’s street scene team has made educating the public to clean up after their pets a priority over recent weeks and is now working with Malvern Hills Conservators to ensure the same courtesy is applied on its land.

Wardens and street scene officers are patrolling the commons together, handing out dog bags and offering advice.

They will also be imposing £75 on-the-spot fines to anyone spotted allowing their dog to foul.

Malvern Link Common is one of the biggest areas of concern.

Nicky Quinn, warden for the conservators, said: “The Link common is well used for dog walking and it’s great to see so many people clearing up after their dogs. However, there are still people who don’t pick up and this can make it very unpleasant for other users of the area. By working with the district council, we hope to send a clear message about what we expect from dog owners.”

Gordon Morris, the council’s street scene manager, said: “We have been having a concerted effort across the district over the past few months on educating the public to clear up after their dogs.

“We have seen big improvements in certain areas.

“But we still have a lot of work to do.”

Anyone who spots a person failing to clear up after their dog is urged to report it by calling the Worcestershire Hub on 01684 862151.