A number of streets around a Welsh medium primary school in Barry have been targeted by Vale of Glamorgan Council enforcement officers following complaints about dog fouling from children.
Areas around Ysgol Gymraeg Sant Baruc at St Paul’s Avenue were the subject of a high visibility campaign by officers and resulted in the issuing of two £75 fixed penalty notices for dog fouling.
The officers also attended a special assembly at the school during which the dangers of toxoplasmosis – a disease that can be passed on to humans through dog faeces – were explained, and every child was given a bag and leaflet for their parents.
Regular patrols are currently being undertaken around the school, and senior enforcement officer Denny White said: “The school has reported a vast improvement in the cleanliness of the problem streets and, hopefully, the people responsible have realised their behaviour is unacceptable.”
Headteacher Dulyn Griffith said: “An unexplained rise in dog fouling on the streets beside the school was causing severe problems for the children so we are delighted that our request for help from the council enforcement team has led to a big improvement in the situation.”
Cabinet member for visible and building services Cllr Geoff Cox said: “The council believes in encouraging residents to take responsibility when walking their dogs and adopt good habits.
“I would urge all dog owners to act responsibly or face receiving a fixed penalty if they fail to clear up after their pets and are caught.”
Blue ‘scoop the poop’ bags are available free from council offices, and Denny added: “It could not be easier to bag, tie and bin pet poop. If you are in a public place, such as the street or a park, remember to always take a bag with you.”
