Council looks to extend dog fouling order

Dog waste has been known to cause cramps, kidney disease and in some cases, blindness

A council is looking for people to share their views on a proposed renewal of a legal order to clamp down on dog fouling.

Swindon Borough Council's Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is expiring, and the authority wants to continue to use the powers.

A separate order covering Lydiard Park is also due for renewal. It has been in place since 2016, and the council said it has reduced the number of complaints about fouling, nuisance dogs and their owners.

Councillor Jim Grant, cabinet member for communities and partnerships, said dog fouling was regularly raised by residents who use local parks and open spaces.

The PSPO allows anti-social behaviour wardens to issue fixed penalty notices to anyone caught failing to pick up after their dogs.

Mr Grant urged people to complete an online survey about the order.

"We think it is working," he said. "But by law, after every three years, we have to renew it, and we have to consult with the public to determine whether they want it renewed.

"It's pretty obvious that people do want it renewed, and I'm hoping that people that do respond to the consultation will not just say yes, but give further views on the subject."

Lydiard Park is also covered by a separate order, which says dogs have to be on leads in the most popular areas during peak times

Councillor Grant added that even people who fail to respond to a warden can still be fined.

"Almost nobody goes to Lydiard Park without a car. If they ignore the officer, that officer can then note down the number plate, and we will be able to get these people," he said.

"The more fines we're able to issue, the more of a deterrent it is going to be."

He said the council is also looking to employ more wardens to address the problem.

The survey can be completed on the council's website until 20 July.