D-Day for 'dirty dog' owners

7.27.36pm GMT Sat 27th Jan 2007

027/07 26-01-07

Tough new Dog Control Orders are being launched in the borough next month and owners who fail to pick up their pets' mess could be hit hard in the pocket.

The new orders, backed by residents in a public consultation, will also target owners who do not keep dogs on a lead in certain designated sites or fail to keep them out of excluded areas.

They risk an £80 fixed penalty charge or a maximum £1,000 fine if they do not pay and the matter goes to court.

The dog fouling order will apply to all open land in the borough, including parks, streets, alleyways and towpaths. Special dog mess bins do not have to be provided, as it is acceptable to put wrapped dog mess in litter bins.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment on Richmond Council, said:

"We have tackled graffiti, improved street cleansing and recycling and now we are making a major effort to get rid of dog fouling, which is nasty, unpleasant and a serious health hazard.

"While most dog owners behave responsibly and clear up the mess, we need to tackle the few persistent offenders who allow their animals to foul the borough. Their anti-social actions will not be tolerated.

"We need local people to help our Enforcement Team tackle the worst areas first. If anyone knows of a problem area or someone who allows their pet to foul, please contact the Council. All calls will be treated in confidence."

A public notice will be printed in local newspapers seven days before the orders come into force.

Another proposed Dog Control Order restricting the number of dogs which one person could take on land such as parks and open spaces will not now be made, following opposition from professional dog walkers and their clients.

To report problem areas or an irresponsible dog walker, please call the Enforcement Team on 0845 612 2660. For more information go to www.richmond.gov.uk/dogs

For further media information contact Cristian Marcucci on 020 8487 5049.

Notes to editors:

Consultation was carried out last October and more than 340 people responded. There was overwhelming support for the new Dog Control Orders.

Under the new orders dogs must be kept on a lead on all the borough's roads, Terrace Gardens, Richmond, York House Gardens, Twickenham, Leg O'Mutton Reservoir, Barnes and Crane Park Island, Heathfield.

Dogs are excluded from all fenced playgrounds and the following sites, which are used as playing fields:

• Barn Elms, Barnes

• Buckingham Park (marked football pitch area), Hampton

• King's Field, Hampton Wick

• Alpha Park Road, Fulwell/Hampton Hill

They are also barred from the following cemeteries:

• East Sheen Cemetery and Richmond Cemetery

• Hampton Cemetery

• Twickenham Cemetery

• Old Mortlake Cemetery

• Teddington Cemetery