Council finds inventive new ways to tackle dog mess

On Thursday evening (March 2), staff from Cityclean were out and about putting up campaign posters – complete with luminous eyes. The watching eyes, which shine in the dark, are designed to act as a deterrent to dog owners reminding them to clean up after their pets.

When dog fouling is cleared from pavements, street cleaners will mark the spot with a washable stencil. These stencils aim to send a message that dog fouling will not be tolerated and also reassure residents that their complaints are being dealt with.

Cllr Gill Mitchell, lead member for the environment on Brighton and Hove City Council, said: “Most incidents of dog fouling happen after dark when some dog owners feel that they can’t be seen. We hope these luminous posters will act as a deterrent, and encourage those irresponsible dog owners to pick up after their pets.”

While the campaign aims to raise awareness and change behaviour, dog owners are reminded that enforcement officers from 3GS are able to issue on the spot fines to offenders.

The ‘We’re watching you’ campaign was launched in other areas of the country last year by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, and sets it sights on irresponsible dog owners.

Staff will also be putting up Keep Britain Tidy group’s ‘Dog Poo Fairy’ posters in parks and other locations reminding dog owners of their responsibilities.

Cllr Mitchell added: “Dog fouling is a major concern for many of our residents so we are very pleased to be working with Keep Britain Tidy, on this campaign.

“Other local authorities which ran the campaign have seen incidents of dog fouling almost halve, so we are hoping to see similar results here in Brighton & Hove.”

To report dog fouling in Brighton and Hove telephone Cityclean on 01273 292929.