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DOG MESS PATROLS BUT STILL NO BINS IN HAWKINGE

A new team of Environmental Community Officers is set to tackle dog fouling in Shepway’s worst affected areas.

Hawkinge is without any dog mess bins and is unlikely to get any according to the Parish Council. A local dog owner told the Gazette: "I've been told it's down to Shepway to provide the bins but they won't do it because they don't own the land.

"The former chairman of the Parish Council told me to put my dog mess in the litter bins, which surely can't be healthy.

"Besides, the nearest bin is in the village which means I have to walk around with a bag of dog mess in my pocket, which isn't very pleasant either.

"I consider myself a responsible dog owner and always pick up after my dog but I think the council should meet us half way and provide a proper dog waste disposal bin instead of sending out patrols intent o­n persecuting and prosecuting."

The team of four is out and about looking at the areas where fouling is particularly bad and is also monitoring complaints. The worst affected areas will then be targeted with enforcement action.

Cllr Hugh Barker, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “Dog mess is polluting areas that residents and visitors should be able to enjoy. The council appreciates that dog owning brings lots of pleasure, but its carries responsibilities too. Every dog owner has a responsibility to clear up after their pet. It takes very little effort and yet makes a big difference to our district.�

The Environmental Community Officers will be patrolling Shepway and approaching owners whose dogs leave a mess.

“The majority of dog owners behave conscientiously, and we hope to get a positive response,� said Cllr Barker. “There will be amnesty period of six weeks when offenders will be given a polite warning. But after that time officers will start issuing a £50 fixed penalty notice to any owner who decides to ignore the law.�

The new team will be dealing other environmental issues, like abandoned cars, to help the council meet its aim to provide a clean, green and safe environment.

“No-one wants a car abandoned in their area, they can be unsightly, and sometimes even a hazard - especially to inquisitive children,� said Cllr Barker.

To report an incident please call  01303 858660