Communities across the county have been signing up to ‘Dog Watch’ – a community based initiative which aims to help local residents who want to reduce the incidences of dog fouling in their immediate areas.
Through the scheme, which has been delivered by Flintshire County Council in partnership with Prawf Cymru Wales Probation and Flintshire Neighbourhood Watch, residents taking part wear a Dog Watch hi-visibility vest and actively patrol their own areas whilst carrying out their daily activities. This acts as a visible deterrent to irresponsible dog owners, who may then think twice about leaving their dog’s mess on the ground. Signs and banners are sited, advising that the area is a ‘no fouling zone’ and is being monitored.
Residents also act as advocates, offering out dog fouling bags, as well as acting as a link between the Council and the community. The Council and North Wales Police support residents taking part, and can then direct enforcement officers to other problem areas.
Two pilots have been running since the spring; one on the Bryn Awelon Estate in Mold and one in Broughton. A further scheme has recently been launched in Central Park, Connah’s Quay. In all three areas, the local county councillors have been actively involved. All areas have seen a significant improvement.
Local resident, Andy Devine, is coordinating the Broughton Dog Watch:
“The scheme has been a huge success and has made big improvements around the village.
“I initially got involved because I’m a dog owner myself and I felt passionately that we needed to work together to sort out the issue of dog fouling locally.
“I’d encourage other communities in Flintshire to get involved in Dog Watch – it really doesn’t take up that much of your time, and the results are worth it.”
Councillor Dennis Hutchinson, Executive Member for Leisure and Public Protection, said:
“Dog Watch has proved to be a very successful scheme. Not only have the areas taking part seen an improvement, but the communities are gaining a sense of ownership of their areas, and it’s also helping to strengthen the links between the Council and the community.
“Such is the scheme’s success that we are now looking to extend it further. We would love to hear from voluntary groups, tenants and residents associations, or residents who just care about where they live, and urge them to get in touch with us, so that they can set up their own Dog Watch initiative with the support of Flintshire County Council.”
To find out more call 01352 703272 or email [email protected].
Photograph: Participants of the scheme at Mold
