Despite ‘plenty of signs and bins’ in the area, residents in East Leake say they are faced with a ‘disgusting’ issue with dog fouling.
Residents shared their frustrations with a local community group about ‘dog mess’ on a playground near Falcon Way and Lantern Lane. However, according to residents in the Nottinghamshire village, the problem is across the area.
“It’s disgusting,” said local resident Callum Thompson.
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The 28-year-old added: “It’s not hard to pick up dog mess, it’s just down to laziness. You’ll notice that there’s plenty of signs and bins around, so it’s no excuse really.”
Clare Smith, 37, has lived in the area for nearly two years, she said that the issue is due to people being lazy. She said: “I like to think most people around here pick it up. People that don’t, it’s just down to laziness.
“It's not just in the parks, you see it on the streets when walking down to the shops. It makes me so angry because the little ones could step in it. It’s really annoying.”
Dog owner Stine Bridge, says her dog Shepherd is a ‘serious pooper’. She said: “To be fair the only time I actually see it is on the street. I’m in a tiff about it. I’m not too fussed, I can imagine if you have a child who could step in it. Even if you do pick it up there is still a bit of residue.
“I understand that there’s a lot of dogs in the area but it’s a small first world problem.”
Last year in July, Rushcliffe Borough Council put a Dog Control Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in place across the borough.
The orders mean a ban on dog fouling on the majority of land in Rushcliffe, as well as making it an offence if dog walkers do not carry dog waste bags with them.
The order also means that action can be taken on those who do not observe dog exclusion zones which apply to all children's play areas, multi-use games areas, skate parks and gym equipment zones which are either fenced or enclosed across the Borough.
Previously speaking about the protection order last year, Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis said: “We’re aware the vast majority of dog owners take their responsibilities seriously and these new powers are there to tackle the minority who flout the rules including those who routinely don’t carry bags to clear up.
“We are keen to protect residents from any of the issues dog fouling raises and the overwhelming support from stakeholders to last year’s consultations shows we have a strong mandate to educate further and take action.
“The emphasis will be on engaging and educating dog owners and only applying fines where necessary.
“Our message to all dog owners is to always carry bags to ensure you’re ready to do the right thing and always pick up after your pet.”
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